Kolkata, Bursting firecrackers beyond the prescribed time limit will not be allowed during the upcoming Kali Puja-Diwali celebrations in West Bengal, Environment Minister Manoj Oraon said on Friday.
“We will not tolerate bursting of firecrackers outside the stipulated hours. A helpline number is being provided to report violations, and prompt action will be taken on receiving complaints. The government has also tightened regulations on flying sky lanterns, with the minister and senior fire department officials making it clear that launching them without prior permission would be illegal.
The state government will deploy round-the-clock mobile teams to monitor violations and take measures to ensure public safety and protect the environment, he said. Addressing reporters after a meeting, Oraon said bursting firecrackers outside the stipulated hours would not be tolerated, and a dedicated helpline would be set up to receive complaints and ensure prompt action. A control room will also remain operational round the clock to monitor violations, he said. We will also organise awareness camps in neighbourhoods to sensitise people,” he said. Even traditional families in north Kolkata, where flying sky lanterns has been a long-standing custom during the festival, will have to obtain prior clearance or a licence from the fire services department, a fire services official present at the press meet said. The government has also directed the authorities to ensure strict compliance with restrictions in silence zones, Oraon said.
