GANDHINAGAR: While states like Delhi, Odisha and neighbouring Rajasthan have banned use of firecrackers due to pollution impact and the Covid-19 pandemic situation, the Gujarat government has said that it has no intention of restricting the use of firecrackers during Diwali and the Gujarati New Year, unless the Centre, NGT or Supreme Court directs otherwise.
Nitin Patel, deputy chief minister and spokesperson of the government said, “The state government does not have any intention or plan to restrict use of firecrackers during the Diwali season and New Year. The government has not issued any direction in this regard. There will be no restrictions on use of firecrackers in any part of the state this festive season.”
Patel added, “However if the NGT, Supreme Court or government of India gives any specific directions, we will follow.’‘