GUWAHATI, Nov 7 - The Assam government is likely to take a decision on banning firecrackers during Diwali after the National Green Tribunal delivers its ruling on the case of pollution by use of firecrackers on Monday.
Hearing various pleas seeking action against pollution by use of firecrackers in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the NGT has issued notices to 18 states, including Assam.
The tribunal felt that it may have to consider prohibiting the use of firecrackers to protect the health of the vulnerable groups in 122 non-attainment cities where air quality is generally beyond permissible limits.
Though there are 23 states and Union territories in total, Wednesday�s notice was sent only to 18 states as three states � Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh � were already issued notices and two others � Odisha and Rajasthan � have already taken action fearing an adverse impact on the COVID situation.
While Odisha has banned the sale and use of firecrackers between November 10 and 30, Rajasthan has not only banned the sale/use of firecrackers, but will also fine Rs 10,000 and Rs 2,000 on shops selling them and on individuals bursting them, respectively.
The Calcutta High Court has also banned the use and sale of firecrackers on Kali Puja, Chhath and Kartik Puja to curb pollution amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
�PCBA has replied to the NGT notice giving the details and status of the air quality in the five non-attainment cities and towns of the State � Guwahati, Nagaon, Sivasagar, Nalbari and Silchar. The air quality in Nagaon and Guwahati continues to be moderate,� official sources said.
Based on the replies received from the State, the NGT is expected to give a ruling on banning firecrackers on Monday. �The State government�s decision whether or not to ban firecrackers will depend on the NGT directives,� the sources added.
Meanwhile, the PCBA has issued a public notice urging people to celebrate Diwali without firecrackers.
�Avoid bursting firecrackers in the interest of health and environment. Keeping in mind the pollution and COVID-19 pandemic situation, avoid the use of crackers as it will severely impact the health of COVID-19 patients,� the notice said.
Experts have warned that deterioration in air quality amidst the pandemic may pose severe health risks while emission from firecrackers in Diwali is likely to further worsen the air quality making people more susceptible to respiratory and lung infections.
