GUWAHATI, Nov 13 - The district administrations in the State have launched drives to impose a ban on firecrackers this Diwali. While there was confusion initially, the ban imposed by the Pollution Control Board, Assam on the basis of a National Green Tribunal order is being executed by the administrations, it has been learnt.
While all kinds of firecrackers have been banned in Guwahati city from November 10 to 30, in other places, only green crackers are being allowed and that too during specific times. The ban was imposed considering Guwahati�s air quality index which was not healthy for vulnerable groups, particularly COVID-19 positive patients and those recuperating from the infection. The PCBA has sought daily action taken reports from the administrations. It is also monitoring the noise pollution and ambient air quality.
�On November 9, the pre-Diwali noise pollution was tested and tomorrow (Saturday) between 6 pm to 12 midnight, we will be measuring the noise pollution at three locations in the city � silence zone, commercial zone and residential zone,� a PCBA official said.
�The district administrations have also been told to monitor the noise pollution in their areas,� the official added.
The ambient air quality is also being monitored at three centres in the city from November 7 to 21. Particulate matter, including PM10, PM2.5 besides metallic content is also being monitored.
