Visakhapatnam:The Andhra Pradesh government has directed official agencies to strictly enforce regulations on use of crackers during Diwali.
Only approved green crackers are allowed, the government said, citing concern over air quality, particularly in Visakhapatnam.
In an order issued on Friday, principal secretary for environment and forests, Kantilal Dande, asked the concerned departments to ensure compliance with Supreme Court directions on the manufacture, sale and use of green crackers during the festival.
The AP pollution control board had sought government intervention to strengthen enforcement ahead of Diwali.
According to the APPCB, monitoring of ambient air quality and noise levels during previous Diwali seasons showed significant increases in particulate matter concentrations, particularly in Visakhapatnam. The board has called for strict implementation of pollution-control measures to minimise festival-related pollution.
The government communication referred to a series of Supreme Court orders on air quality management and firecracker regulation. The court has directed that only approved green crackers be manufactured and sold, while district administrations and police departments have been asked to monitor compliance.
The government has also called for measures to curb pollution from vehicular emissions, road dust, industrial emissions, biomass burning and other sources, particularly during the Deepavali season and the approaching winter months.
The APPCB has forwarded the directions to the municipal administration, transport, roads and industries departments for necessary action. The board has been asked to continue monitoring air quality and coordinate enforcement with the local authorities.
The measures are aimed at addressing public health concerns arising from increased air pollution during Diwali and seasonal atmospheric conditions.
The authorities are expected to intensify surveillance and awareness campaigns in Visakhapatnam to promote the use of green crackers and ensure compliance with environmental norms.
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