Home / Environment / Kolkata Markets Flood With Illegal Firecrackers
Kolkata Markets Flood With Illegal Firecrackers
7 Nov
Summary
- Loose firecrackers are openly sold despite rules against it.
- Many fireworks lack NEERI approval, indicating illegality.
- Activists blame relaxed industry rules for market flooding.
Kolkata's markets, including Chandni Chowk, are reportedly overflowing with loose and potentially illegal firecrackers, despite regulations prohibiting their sale. A recent inspection found that many fireworks available to shoppers were not manufactured by NEERI-approved entities. These NEERI-approved manufacturers produce green crackers designed for reduced emissions.
Green activists expressed dismay over the prevalence of illegal fireworks, suggesting that a recent downgrading of the firecracker industry's classification from red to white has facilitated the proliferation of small manufacturing units. These units allegedly do not adhere to green cracker formulas, making it easier to obtain licenses compared to when the industry was under stricter oversight.
Authorities stated that only firecrackers sold within designated 'Bazi Baazars' are legal. Police have issued approximately 160 licenses for stalls at four such authorized locations across the city. Additionally, the state pollution control board has imposed a two-hour limit on bursting crackers on Diwali evening.
