Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma disagrees with PCB directive banning bursting and sale of fire crackers

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma disagreed with Pollution Control Board (PCB) directive banning the bursting and sale of all kinds of fire cracker except green crackers during Diwali.

The Chief Minister on Monday evening tweeted : “Assam Pollution Control Board has, reportedly, suo-motu, without any consultation with Govt, issued an order banning sale of firecrackers & other restrictions. We’ve taken note of this. The entire issue is being reviewed afresh, holistically, keeping people’s sentiments in mind.”

The PCB in a notification stated that in compliance of the directions of the National Green Tribunal,only the green crackers can be sold and bursting is allowed only for two hours during Deepavali festivals from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., during Chatt Puja from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and during Christmas and New year eve from 11.55 p.m to 12.30 a.m.

Other than the specified festivals, prior permission of the concerned Deputy Commissioners of the Districts would be required for use of only green crackers for a limited period (not more than two hours) in the state, said the notification, issued by state PCB Member Secretary Shantanu Kr. Dutta.