Only green crackers allowed in Ahmedabad on Christmas and New Year’s Eve, time limit imposed

Ahmedabad authorities have imposed strict restrictions on the use of firecrackers during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations to curb pollution and prevent accidents. The decision was announced by the Ahmedabad Police, citing public safety and environmental concerns.

As per the order, only ‘green crackers’ will be permitted within Ahmedabad city. Firecrackers may be burst only for 35 minutes, from 11.55 pm to 12.30 am, on Christmas night and New Year’s Eve.

The police have stated that only licensed traders will be allowed to sell PESO-approved green crackers. The online sale of firecrackers and the sale of imported or foreign crackers have been completely banned. In line with Supreme Court directives, the use of barium-containing firecrackers and firecracker strings (ladi), considered harmful to health, has also been prohibited.

To ensure public safety, a 100-metre radius around hospitals, educational institutions, and religious places has been declared a silent zone, where bursting firecrackers will not be allowed. Firecrackers have also been banned near petrol pumps, gas storage facilities, and crowded market areas.

Additionally, the manufacture, sale, and use of Chinese sky lanterns have been prohibited to prevent fire hazards and accidents caused by airborne fireworks.

Police officials have appealed to citizens to strictly follow the guidelines, warning that violations will invite legal action.