KOHIMA, OCTOBER 19 (MExN): The Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) has appealed to citizens to celebrate the festive season in an eco-friendly manner and refrain from using firecrackers that cause air and noise pollution, warning that such activities have serious effects on human health and the environment.
The Board stated that rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles have led to rising ambient noise levels from multiple sources such as loudspeakers, public address systems, musical instruments, and unnecessary honking of horns. “The erratic and impulsive noise from firecrackers and other sources causes disharmony and affects people’s psychological well-being,” it said in a public notice.
To address this issue, the Government of India has enacted the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which provides a legal framework for regulating ambient noise levels.
Firecrackers worsen air and noise quality
The NPCB cautioned that while fireworks are often associated with celebration, they also release toxic gases and fine dust particles that significantly degrade air quality. It pointed out that Kohima and Dimapur have been classified as non-attainment cities, meaning their air quality exceeds permissible limits under the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
“The fine dust produced after bursting crackers contains oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, metal dust and organic pollutants,” the Board said. Even sparklers and flower pots, often considered harmless, emit thick smoke that can irritate the respiratory tract of young children.
Firecrackers pose greater risks to people with heart, respiratory or nervous system disorders, and can cause throat, nose, and eye problems. They may also contaminate water and soil. “The green colour in fireworks comes from barium, a radioactive and poisonous element, while the blue colour is produced from copper compounds that emit dioxins linked to cancer,” the NPCB warned.
Green crackers
Green firecrackers are designed to produce less smoke and fewer harmful gases and particulate matter.
Green firecrackers though particulate matter emissions by green fire crackers are 20-30% less compared to conventional ones, experts argue that these are still harmful and cannot completely eliminate pollution.
Rules and restrictions
Under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, the following restrictions apply to the use of firecrackers- the Deputy Commissioner is the implementing authority. Bursting of crackers between 10 PM and 6 AM is prohibited. Firecrackers emitting noise above 125 decibels are banned.
Additionally, under Section 31A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and Section 8 of the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, prior permission must be obtained from the concerned administration before organising fireworks displays. The permission will specify the time and venue, which must be away from hospitals, schools, and residential areas. The organisers must also give prior public notice to prevent panic and disturbance.
