Chandigarh (Haryana): Two days after announcing a "complete ban" on the sale of firecrackers, the Haryana government on Sunday allowed them for two hours on Diwali.
This decision has been taken in view of the rising levels of pollution while adhering to the guidelines issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to decrease air pollution, according to a government release.
The state government on Friday had said it has decided to put a complete ban on the sale of crackers in the state to check the coronavirus spread due to pollution caused by the bursting of crackers.
Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday in Fatehabad said people will be permitted to burst firecrackers for only two hours on Diwali.
It has been observed that there has been a spike in coronavirus infections due to air pollution, he said.
Also read: Firecracker licenses suspended in Delhi ahead of Diwali
In order to reduce pollution and prevent the spread of the infection, restrictions have been imposed on the sale and bursting of crackers, he said.
Pertinent to mention, several states including Rajasthan, Odisha, have already decided to ban firecrackers as firecrackers can badly impact the health of those who have already been infected by coronavirus. Experts have also advised controlling their use.
The Delhi government has imposed a blanket ban on firecrackers, including those branded 'green', between November 7 and 30, with the city reeling under the impact of hazardous air quality and a steep rise in the number of Covid-19 infections.
The Calcutta High Court also banned sell and use of firecrackers for Diwali and Kali puja, Chat puja and Jagadhatri puja across West Bengal. The order adds no entry for the public to the Kali puja pandals as well. Any procession of idol immersion is also banned.
With inputs from PTI
