With pollution levels escalating as winter approaches, several Indian states are enforcing restrictions on firecrackers during Diwali, New Year, and other festivals to prevent further air quality deterioration.

Delhi: Complete Ban with Limited Hours for Green Crackers

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has implemented a full ban on firecracker storage and sales until January 1, 2025, responding to the city’s severe pollution from stubble burning and other sources. However, green crackers are permitted for use between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali.

Maharashtra: Green Crackers Allowed, Sky Lanterns Banned

The Maharashtra government allows green crackers but has banned sky lanterns from October 23 to November 24. Mumbai residents are urged by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to celebrate with eco-friendly, low-noise firecrackers and limit usage until 10 pm during Diwali.

Bihar: Ban in Major Cities

The Bihar government has banned all firecrackers, including green ones, in cities like Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Hajipur. In other areas, only green crackers are allowed on the festive day.

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West Bengal: Green Crackers Only in Compliance with NGT

In West Bengal, the TMC government permits only certified green crackers following National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines. Kolkata residents are allowed to burst crackers from 8 pm to 10 pm on Diwali.

Punjab: Restrictive Timings and Green Crackers Only

The AAP government in Punjab, facing pollution concerns due to stubble burning, enforces strict firecracker regulations according to Supreme Court and NGT directives. Limited hours are set for specific festivals:

• Diwali (October 31): 8 pm to 10 pm
• Gurpurab (November 15): 4 am to 5 am and 9 pm to 10 pm
• Christmas and New Year’s Eve: 11.55 pm to 12.30 am

Haryana: NCR Restrictions Apply

Under the new Nayab Singh Saini government, Haryana, particularly NCR regions like Gurugram, is following the same firecracker restrictions as Delhi, urging the use of green crackers only.

Karnataka: Encouragement for Green Crackers

The Siddaramaiah-led government in Karnataka has recommended residents use green crackers between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali. The state has not imposed an official firecracker ban.

Kerala: Green Crackers for Diwali and Limited Hours for Festivals

Kerala encourages green crackers between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali and has set timings for other festivals, such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve from 11.55 pm to 12.30 am.

Tamil Nadu: Early Morning and Evening Slot for Diwali

The Tamil Nadu government has designated two slots for green cracker usage on Diwali—6 am to 7 am and 7 pm to 8 pm and encourages low-pollution and low-sound options.

Odisha: Restricted Timing and Chemical Ban

The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) allows only green crackers in open spaces on Diwali from 7 pm to 9 pm. Crackers containing harmful chemicals like barium nitrate are prohibited.

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