Green Crackers for an Eco-friendly Deepavali

The Tamil Nadu government has authorized the use of green firecrackers on Deepavali during designated hours, emphasizing environmental responsibility. Based on a Supreme Court judgment, crackers may only be used from 6-7 AM and 7-8 PM on October 31, 2024. Crackers should be avoided in silence areas and near flammable locations.

In adherence to a 2018 Supreme Court ruling, the Tamil Nadu government announced that the use of firecrackers is permitted on Deepavali under strict conditions aimed at reducing noise and pollution. Residents can only burst crackers between 6 AM and 7 AM and from 7 PM to 8 PM on October 31, 2024. The government mandates the use of environmentally friendly green crackers to minimize smoke emissions.

Authorities stressed the importance of avoiding firecracker use in designated silence areas, such as near hospitals, and other locations prone to fire hazards like huts. The intent is to celebrate the festival more as a 'festival of lights,' eschewing the traditional noisy and polluting practices.

Calling upon citizens to embrace a more sustainable way of celebrating, the official statement encouraged the community to reflect on the environmental impacts of their festive activities, urging a shift towards quieter and cleaner celebrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)