Shillong, Nov 4: The Khasi Students Union (KSU), Mawprem Circle has written to East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, requesting strict enforcement of rules governing the use of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations.
In a letter on Wednesday, the KSU sought strict enforcement of firecracker rules in Mawprem, saying the festival must not come at the cost of public peace.
While respecting Diwali as a festival of lights, joy and togetherness, the KSU said bursting of loud crackers badly affects children, senior citizens, patients and those sensitive to noise.
It reminded the administration of the Supreme Court’s 8 pm to 10 pm window for bursting crackers, and said only legal, eco-friendly crackers should be allowed. Crackers exceeding 125 dB (AI) or 145 dB (C Peak) at four metres must be banned, it said.
The union urged the DC to direct police and departments to enforce the timing, crack down on violations, check sale of banned crackers, run awareness drives on noise and air pollution, and step up monitoring in Mawprem.
“Diwali should be about happiness, peace and goodwill, not discomfort,” the KSU said, appealing to the public to celebrate safely and responsibly.
