‘Prioritize Lights Over Firecrackers’: BMC’s New Guidelines to Curb Diwali Pollution

In response to rising pollution levels, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued new guidelines on Tuesday, urging Mumbai residents to celebrate Diwali with lights rather than firecrackers. The guidelines focus on reducing air and noise pollution in the city, which has experienced a marked decline in air quality over recent months.

Pollution Concerns Prompt Stricter Regulations

The BMC’s statement highlights the significant impact firecrackers have on Mumbai’s air quality, especially during Diwali festivities. “Pollution is rapidly increasing across the country, and the air quality in Mumbai has also deteriorated significantly,” the BMC noted, attributing part of this decline to firecracker usage. Residents are advised to avoid bursting firecrackers after 10 PM and to limit their use overall.

The guidelines stipulate that firecrackers should only be ignited in open areas, avoiding narrow streets or crowded places to ensure safety and reduce pollution. The BMC also stressed health risks associated with pollution, which disproportionately affects children, the elderly, pregnant women, and asthma patients.

Emphasis on a “Festival of Lights”

The BMC’s advisory encourages citizens to celebrate Diwali, focusing on traditional lighting and decoration, which generates minimal pollution. They further recommend the use of soundless or low-smoke firecrackers as an environmentally friendly alternative.

The BMC has advised safety measures such as wearing cotton clothing, ensuring adult supervision, and keeping water or sand nearby for those who still choose to use firecrackers. Residents are also warned not to ignite dry leaves or paper near firecrackers to reduce fire hazards.

These guidelines aim to foster a safe, pollution-free Diwali celebration, aligning with the BMC’s call to prioritize the festival’s spirit without compromising environmental and public health.