DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Kuda Village Council has announced a complete ban on the bursting and sale of firecrackers within its jurisdiction throughout the year, including during Christmas, New Year, Diwali and other festivals, citing serious health, environmental and public safety concerns.
The council has also written to the Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur urging revival of the district administration’s earlier prohibition on firecrackers, stating that unrestricted use during festive seasons has become a major disturbance to residents and a risk to public health.
In its resolution adopted on November 29, the council said the use of firecrackers “seriously affects” senior citizens, infants, children, sick and bed-ridden persons as well as domestic animals, poultry and cattle. It said loud explosions disrupt prayer gatherings, church services and community fellowships, while toxic fumes and non-biodegradable waste from fireworks contribute to air pollution and long-term health hazards.
The council described the excitement of fireworks as “momentary” but their impact on vulnerable persons as traumatic and lasting, noting that the noise and smoke leave behind effects “grievous to both humans and other living beings.”
As part of enforcement measures, the council resolved that any person found bursting firecrackers within the village area will be fined Rs 2,500, while shops selling fireworks will be penalised Rs 10,000 on the spot for a first offence. The Kuda Youth Club and its A, B and C Khel units have been authorised to carry out enforcement. Penalties for repeat offences will be enhanced by the Youth Club and the Village Council as deemed necessary.
In its separate letter to the Deputy Commissioner, the council urged the administration to re-impose a district-wide ban on firecrackers during the festive season, reiterating that Dimapur had earlier enforced such measures owing to public health concerns. It maintained that there is “no known tradition” linking Christmas, New Year or Diwali celebrations with compulsory use of firecrackers, saying the absence of fireworks “in no way diminishes the joy or spirit of these festivals.”
Stating that communities continue to suffer every year from noise and air pollution, the council said the use of firecrackers takes “a heavy toll” on vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children and hospital patients. It said the growing use of fireworks has also disturbed peace, tranquillity and air quality in the district.
While appealing for a complete ban, the council suggested that if firecrackers must be allowed, the administration may consider designating a zone outside urban and suburban areas—far from hospitals, nursing homes, churches, hostels and densely populated localities—so that those who wish to use fireworks may do so without harming others. It also recommended imposing deterrent penalties for violators.
The Kuda Village Council further appealed to all villages and colonies in Dimapur district to support a collective ban on firecrackers in the interest of public health and environmental protection.
