Shillong, Nov 6: The East Khasi Hills District Magistrate has restricted the bursting of firecrackers to specific hours on November 6, 7 and 8 in view of the Deepawali celebrations.
In an advisory, the DM said firecrackers can be burst only between 6 am and 7 am and 8 pm and 10 pm on the three days, in compliance with the directives of the Supreme Court of India.
Residents have been urged to use only CSIR-NEERI-certified green crackers to minimise air and noise pollution.
Bursting of firecrackers near schools, hospitals, dispensaries, old-age homes and children’s homes has been prohibited.
The advisory also lays down safety precautions. Children should be kept at a safe distance while bursting crackers, while sky crackers must be kept away from tall buildings and trees.
Citizens have been cautioned against using alcohol-based hand sanitisers while lighting diyas or firecrackers, owing to their inflammable nature. The advisory has recommended washing hands with soap and water instead.
Emphasising environmental responsibility, the administration has asked residents to ensure proper segregation, collection and disposal of festive waste in accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules and Plastic Waste Management Rules.
For reporting violations or lodging complaints, residents can contact the Police Control Room at 0364-2215427, 100 or 6009196479.
The DM has appealed to the public to celebrate Deepawali responsibly while ensuring public safety, environmental protection and peaceful festivities.
