The Bombay High Court has directed that firecrackers must not be burst on public roads, streets and footpaths across Maharashtra throughout the year. The restriction will apply during major festivals, including Navratri, Diwali and Christmas, to curb noise and air pollution caused by celebrations and processions.
A bench comprising Justices Girish S Kulkarni and Neela K Gokhale expressed concern over worsening pollution and warned of its long-term consequences for urban residents.
“Unless citizens understand the urgency of the situation and become aware of the long-term dangers of living in cities, the situation will continue to deteriorate. Such cities can turn into gas chambers,” the bench observed during the hearing.
The court said the issue was not the absence of laws but the failure to enforce existing legislation effectively. It also emphasised the importance of protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the Constitution.
Year-Round Restriction Extends Earlier Ganeshotsav Order
The latest directive expands on restrictions issued during Ganeshotsav on September 22. The court raised concerns about deteriorating air quality and the harmful effects of post-Diwali pollution, particularly on children and senior citizens.
The order does not, however, prohibit the manufacture or commercial sale of firecrackers.
Maharashtra Government, BMC And MPCB Get Directions
The court has issued directions to the Maharashtra Government, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to ensure the order is implemented.
The three agencies must jointly issue public notices highlighting the harmful effects of firecrackers and noise pollution. They have also been directed to launch awareness campaigns in schools and on public transport within a week of the order.
The campaigns will involve celebrities and promote green firecrackers, which are designed to cause less pollution.
The court has also called for an effective complaint-redressal mechanism in coordination with the police to ensure prompt action against violations.
The matter came up during the hearing of a suo motu public interest litigation titled The High Court on Its Own Motion v. State of Maharashtra and Others, along with connected petitions. The petitions raised concerns over loud sound systems and the indiscriminate bursting of firecrackers on public roads. The next hearing is scheduled for November 25.