Owing to the declining air quality all across the state, sale and use of firecrackers is now banned in Lucknow and 11 other districts in UP. These cities include- Kanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Agra, Varanasi, Meerut, Hapur, Moradabad, Greater Noida, Baghpat, Bulandshahr and NCR. The ban will be effective from the midnight of November 9 and will go on till the 30th of December. This decision comes after the state agreed to comply with the guidelines of the National Green Tribunal on Monday.
No Firecrackers for a safe Diwali
Uttar Pradesh has imposed a complete ban on the sales and use of firecrackers in the districts suffering from ‘unhealthy’ to ‘hazardous’ ranges of AQI. Though, certain relaxations have been offered with the permission to sale and burst ‘green crackers’ in districts which have moderately better air quality.
What are Green Crackers?
Developed by the National Environmental and Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) and Council for Scientific and Industrial Research lab, Green Crackers are fireworks that emit 30% fewer emissions than generic, synthetic ones. These crackers are sold under three categories- SAFAL, STAR and SWAS. The chemical composition of these crackers is diluted, and therefore, they help in controlling the levels of air pollution, making them less harmful for human health and environment in comparison to conventional fireworks.
For a green & safe Diwali!
The ban on firecrackers was a much needed one, given the current situation. Using firecrackers could add to the already deteriorating AQI of the city, making the air more toxic. The ban will be beneficial for those who are vulnerable to coronavirus and in turn help curb the rise in cases.
