West Bengal issues new firecracker guidelines for Kali Puja

The West Bengal administration has issued new guidelines to regulate firecracker use and control noise and air pollution during the upcoming Kali Puja and Chhath Puja festivals. Home Secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh announced that while there is no total ban on firecrackers, strict regulations regarding decibel levels and designated time slots will be enforced.

According to the directives, firecrackers are permitted only between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM on the night of Kali Puja, and between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM during Chhath Puja. To protect sensitive areas, a 100-meter buffer zone around hospitals, schools, and old age homes has been established as a ‘silence zone’ where firecrackers are prohibited.

Regarding noise limits, sound-producing green crackers must not exceed 125 decibels, while light-producing crackers are capped at 90 decibels. The administration is emphasizing the use of ‘green crackers’ approved by the Pollution Control Board, which feature QR codes for authenticity verification. Authorities will also monitor firecracker manufacturing, storage, and sales sites to prevent the distribution of banned items. Additionally, residents in high-rise buildings are advised to remain cautious regarding smoke and fire safety, and special permission is required for flying lanterns.