Jorhat bans conventional firecrackers, allows usage of only green crackers | Guwahati News

Dibrugarh: The Jorhat district administration on Tuesday imposed a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, sale and use of conventional firecrackers, permitting usage of only green crackers during the upcoming Kali Puja, Deepawali and Chhath Puja festivals. The order, issued under Section 163(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), comes into effect from Tuesday.District magistrate Jay Shivani issued the order, citing concerns over public safety, environmental pollution and potential misuse of firecrackers for subversive activities.“Considering the necessary exigency in the interest of peace and tranquility, this order has been passed to ensure public safety during the festive season,” Shivani said in the official notification.“Apart from causing disturbance to the public, the use of such fireworks may be misused by miscreants for subversive activities,” the order said, highlighting security concerns alongside environmental and health considerations.Violations of the prohibitory order will attract penalties under Section 223 of the BNS, the note read.The order specifically prohibits manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers generating noise levels above 125 decibels. Additionally, a complete ban on bursting sound-emitting firecrackers has been imposed between 10 pm and 6 am to minimise disturbance during night hours.The restrictions extend to designated silence zones, including areas within 100 metres of hospitals, educational institutions, courts and religious places. Firecrackers are also banned within 100-metre radius of petrol pumps, LPG storage areas, power houses and other vulnerable installations to prevent potential hazards. The administration has further prohibited the sale and use of firecrackers on public roads, footpaths and thoroughfares.According to the notice, sellers must obtain valid licenses from the district administration to operate legally.