Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has announced that the bursting of firecrackers will be allowed only between 8 pm and 10 pm on October 21 and 22. The decision comes amid growing concerns over air pollution and follows the Supreme Court’s recent directive regulating firecracker use in Delhi-NCR.
This year, only eco-friendly or “green” crackers will be permitted across Karnataka. District administrations have been instructed to intensify checks against illegal storage, sale, and trading of firecrackers containing heavy metals and other pollutants.
Strict enforcement of green cracker rules
Since 2018, Karnataka has allowed only the sale and use of eco-friendly crackers during festive celebrations. However, enforcement has remained inconsistent, and concerns about air quality and public health continue to rise.
Environment and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre emphasised that this year, strict adherence to green cracker usage is mandatory. “We urge citizens to use only eco-friendly firecrackers to ensure safety and reduce pollution,” he said.
KSPCB chairperson PM Narendra Swamy told The Times of India that the board is closely reviewing the Supreme Court order. “The court has specified a time window and designated zones for Delhi. While Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka do not face air pollution levels comparable to Delhi, we are advising citizens to follow the permitted hours. Any revisions will be communicated shortly after the scheduled meeting on Friday,” he added.
Roles of district officials
Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, and regional officers have been instructed to take strict action against individuals and businesses violating the rules. Firecrackers containing heavy metal oxides or other harmful substances will not be tolerated, and illegal stockpiles will be confiscated.
The two-hour window for cracker bursting is similar to last year’s restriction, aimed at balancing festive celebrations with environmental responsibility. Authorities hope that citizens will cooperate voluntarily, reducing the need for punitive action.
Public awareness and participation
KSPCB and the state government are also focusing on raising awareness about the adverse health effects of air pollution caused by firecrackers. Public service messages, media campaigns, and social media outreach will be intensified ahead of Diwali to encourage compliance with the green cracker guidelines.
While Bengaluru has witnessed periodic spikes in air pollution during Diwali, authorities believe the two-hour green cracker window, combined with monitoring of illegal sales, can significantly reduce particulate matter in the atmosphere.
Looking ahead
Officials have said that the board will continue to evaluate air quality levels across Karnataka during the festive season. Any necessary adjustments to permitted timings or zones will be announced promptly. Citizens are urged to cooperate and prioritise safety and environmental responsibility during the celebrations.