How Can We Celebrate an Eco-Friendly and Noiseless Diwali?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Opt for certified green crackers this Diwali.
- Adhere to the designated bursting hours: 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Participate in community celebrations to reduce environmental impact.
- Follow essential safety measures to ensure a safe Diwali.
- Transform Diwali into a celebration of sustainability.
Chennai, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has urged the community to observe a green and quiet Diwali by opting for only certified eco-friendly crackers and strictly following the designated hours for bursting them -- from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The TNPCB emphasized that while Deepavali symbolizes joy and illumination, the rampant and uncontrolled use of fireworks inflicts considerable harm on the environment.
"The unrestricted use of crackers results in severe air, land, and water pollution and poses serious health risks, including temporary or permanent hearing loss," the announcement stated.
The Board reminded the public that the Supreme Court, in its 2018 ruling, mandated that only low-emission, eco-friendly crackers be manufactured and sold to mitigate pollution during festivals.
The apex court also promoted community celebrations and organized firework shows within limited hours to lessen the environmental impact. "To protect public health and preserve the environment, the state government continues to enforce specific time slots for cracker usage, in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directives," the TNPCB added.
As the festival approaches, the Board has ramped up its public awareness initiatives through schools, colleges, Eco Clubs, and National Green Corps (NGC) units across Tamil Nadu.
These efforts are being coordinated with various departments, including School Education, Higher Education, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), law enforcement, district administrations, and local organizations.
Citizens are encouraged to observe vital safety protocols such as using only low-noise, low-emission crackers, avoiding series crackers, and steering clear of bursting fireworks near hospitals, schools, religious sites, or areas prone to fires.
Reiterating its message, the Board proclaimed, "Deepavali is a festival of light and unity, not of noise and smoke." It called on the public to transform this year's festival into a celebration of joy and sustainability by embracing a pollution-free, safe, and responsible Diwali.