Govt opposes complete ban on sale of crackers

The Centre on Tuesday opposed the plea for a complete ban on the sale of crackers during Diwali across the country and suggested the Supreme Court that certain conditions can be imposed on the manufacture and sale of high- decibel level crackers.

Additional solicitor- general Nadkarni made this submission before a bench of Justices A. K. Sikri and Ashok Bhushan during hearing of petitions seeking ban on sale of crackers as they cause air pollution. He placed on record the Centre’s affidavit filed in consultation with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, National Environment Engineering Research Institute, Petroleum and Explosives Safety organisation ( PESO) and Central Pollution Control Board.

The Centre suggested the use of reduced emission firecrackers and avoidance of the use of ash as desiccant or filler materials in crackers for a reduction in particulate matter by 15 to 20 per cent. It said the PESO would ensure that only those crackers whose decibel levels are within the limits are allowed in the market and will suspend the licences of manufacturers on violations. It said manufacture sale and use of joined- firecrackers ( series crackers) might be banned as the same causes huge air, noise and solid waste problems.

Major Indian cities may explore the option of community fire cracking with strict time restriction as adopted in some countries. Other restrictions that can be explored include, bursting of firecrackers may be allowed only in areas/ fields preidentified and pre- designated by respective state government.