GANGTOK : The Sikkim Pollution Control Board has announced a complete ban on the manufacture, sale, and bursting of all sound and light-emitting firecrackers across the state ahead of Diwali, which falls on October 20.
The board also prohibited the use of single-use plastic items during the festive period and appealed to residents to adopt eco-friendly celebrations, including light displays and other environmentally safe alternatives.
The directive aims to reduce air and noise pollution during the festival season and promote a cleaner and healthier environment. Citizens have been urged to celebrate responsibly and avoid activities that could harm the ecosystem.
Meanwhile, in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, festive markets have opened with a variety of firecrackers on sale, including new products themed after “Operation Sindoor” and cricketer Rinku Singh, both seeing high demand.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court permitted the limited use of green firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR region from October 18 to 20. The court specified that they may only be burst between 6–7 am and 8–10 pm on the day before and on Diwali itself.
The bench, led by Chief Justice BR Gavai, clarified that the relaxation was temporary and meant as a test case, emphasising the need for a balanced approach between festive celebrations and environmental protection.
The Sikkim Pollution Control Board has banned firecrackers and single-use plastics to ensure eco-friendly Diwali celebrations. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices. In contrast, Aligarh markets are bustling with firecracker sales, highlighting differing regional approaches to the festive season.