Restrictions on firecrackers for Christmas and New Year Celebrations in West Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 20, 2024

The District Magistrate of West Jaintia Hills has issued an order under Section 163 BNNS to regulate the use of firecrackers during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, prioritizing public safety, health, and wellbeing.

The order prohibits the sale, purchase, and procurement of foreign-made firecrackers. Only licensed traders are allowed to sell firecrackers, and these must comply with the guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board.

Firecrackers generating noise levels exceeding 125 dB (A1) or 145 dB(C) pk at a distance of four meters are strictly banned. Additionally, the use of joined firecrackers, such as series crackers or laris, which cause significant air, noise, and solid waste pollution, is prohibited.

Bursting of crackers within 100 meters of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health care centers, educational institutions, court, religious place or any other area which may have been declared as silent zones by the concerned authorities is prohibited.

The permitted timing for bursting crackers is restricted from 11:55 PM to 12:30 AM.

This order comes into effect immediately and will remain in force until the celebrations conclude