Kolkata, 17 October (H.S.): Kolkata Police has issued strict guidelines regarding the bursting of firecrackers during Kali Puja and Diwali. Just two days before the festival, the Lalbazar headquarters announced on Friday that only green crackers (environment-friendly fireworks) will be allowed. The police have warned that anyone violating these rules will face stringent legal action.

According to the official notification, on October 20, green crackers can be burst only between 8 PM and 10 PM on the occasion of Kali Puja and Diwali. Similarly, during Chhath Puja on October 28, people will be allowed to burst green crackers between 6 AM and 8 AM.

Notably, in 2021, the matter of firecracker use had reached the Supreme Court. Following the apex court’s directions, the State Pollution Control Board imposed a blanket ban across West Bengal on the manufacture, sale, storage, and use of all kinds of fireworks except green crackers. The same order remains in force this year as well.

Lalbazar officials informed that a total of 1,403 licensed firework manufacturers have been permitted to sell their products this year. The traditional firecracker market at the Shaheed Minar grounds in Dharmatala opened on Thursday, featuring 37 stalls. The market is being operated under the supervision of the Burrabazar Fireworks Dealers Association and will continue till October 21.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma stated that special surveillance will be in place across the city during the festive period to ensure safe purchase and use of crackers. He warned that anyone found involved in the sale or use of banned fireworks will face strict punishment.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Commissioner held a meeting with around 3,500 Kali Puja organizers to discuss security measures and festival-related protocols. During the meeting, all organizers were instructed to follow safety guidelines strictly.

Verma further informed that all idol immersions must be completed between October 21 and 23. The use of DJ systems during immersion processions has been completely prohibited. He also reminded that, as per a 2019 notification by the Fire Department, the flying of sky lanterns (fanush) remains banned.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh