Kolkata: The West Bengal administration has issued a set of guidelines regulating the use of firecrackers during Kali Puja and Chhath Puja, restricting bursting hours, setting noise limits and prohibiting fireworks near hospitals and old-age homes.

Police Commissioner Ajay Nanda and Home Secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh met at Nabanna to discuss measures to prevent environmental damage and ensure public safety during the festivals.

According to the guidelines, only environmentally friendly green crackers will be permitted. The administration has also warned that violations will invite legal action.

The key guidelines issued by the administration are as follows:

  • Permitted firecrackers: Only green crackers will be allowed during Kali Puja and Chhath Puja.
  • Noise limits: The maximum permissible noise limit for sound-emitting firecrackers is set at 125 decibels, while 90 decibels is specified for other categories.
  • Kali Puja timings: Firecrackers can be burst only between 8 pm and 10 pm.
  • Chhath Puja timings: Firecrackers can be burst only between 6 am and 8 am.
  • Multi-storey residential buildings: Housing complexes have been instructed to monitor smoke levels during firecracker use.
  • Sky lanterns: A licence from the Fire and Emergency Services Department will be mandatory for flying sky lanterns.
  • Restrictions near hospitals: Bursting firecrackers will be prohibited within 100 metres of hospitals and old-age homes.
  • Firecracker markets: Markets must be set up away from residential areas and follow the administration's prescribed rules. Authorities will maintain strict surveillance.
  • Action against banned crackers: The administration said it had already seized 110 kg of prohibited firecrackers from Burrabazar and was taking action against those responsible.
  • Penalties and complaints: The Director General of Police (DGP) warned of legal action against those who violate the rules. Helpline numbers will also be provided so the public can register complaints.

Home Secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh urged people to celebrate responsibly and ensure that their festivities do not cause harm or inconvenience to others.