Goa government limits time for bursting Diwali crackers

PANAJI: The department of environment, government of Goa, on Sunday, issued an order to restrict bursting of firecrackers, based on the directives issued by the Supreme Court on the matter on October 30. On November 6, when Goa celebrates Diwali, the bursting of firecrackers will be allowed ‘strictly’ only from 4.30am to 5.30am and from 7pm to 8pm.

This will ensure that burning of the effigies of the demon Narkasur in Goa can take place smoothly. The tradition of burning of the effigies in the state, symbolising destruction of evil, takes place in the wee hours, which, this year, will be during the intervening night of November 5 and 6.

The effigies are filled with firecrackers.

‘Police responsible for implementing order’

On the other days during the Diwali festival, on November 7 and 8, bursting of firecrackers has been ‘strictly’ restricted from 8pm to 10pm, states the order signed by Ravi Jha, director and ex-officio joint secretary to Goa government.

“The police station in-charge of the respective police station shall be fully responsible for implementation of the Supreme Court directions. This notification shall come into effect with immediate effect,” the order states.

The Supreme Court order of October 30 had given certain directives on manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers in the country. The move is expected to reduce air pollution.