The Punjab government on Monday issued strict regulations governing the sale and use of firecrackers for the upcoming festive season. As Diwali, Gurpurab, Christmas and New Year celebrations approach, these new guidelines aim to reduce environmental pollution and protect public health, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, who are more susceptible to respiratory problems caused by firecracker pollution. .

Acting on the directives of the Supreme Court of India and the National Green Tribunal, the state government has imposed a state-wide ban on the manufacture, distribution and sale of dangerous firecrackers. Only “green crackers” – free of harmful chemicals such as barium salts and antimony, mercury and arsenic compounds – will be allowed for sale and use. The official spokesperson stressed that these measures aim to ensure compliance with environmental safety standards, responding to growing concerns about air quality.

Under the new regulations, sales of firecrackers will be restricted to licensed traders authorized to sell green crackers exclusively. Firecrackers exceeding permitted decibel levels or containing prohibited substances are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the Government has established designated time slots for the use of firecrackers during festivals.

For Diwali (October 31), the use of firecrackers will be limited to a two-hour window, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Gurpurab celebrations (November 15) will allow the use of firecrackers from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m., then from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, firecrackers will be allowed from 11:55 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. only.

Additionally, the sale of firecrackers through e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Flipkart, is banned to prevent unauthorized distribution within the state. This ban aims to ensure stricter control of sales and compliance with the licensing system.

Punjab Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with carrying out extensive awareness campaigns to educate the public about the harmful effects of firecrackers on health and environment. The government has also tasked law enforcement agencies with ensuring strict compliance with these regulations. Surveillance will be increased in markets and public spaces to prevent illegal sales and ensure that the use of firecrackers is limited to designated times and places.