Ahead of Diwali, the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) on Saturday urged the people of Sikkim to celebrate the festival in an eco-friendly manner, emphasizing the harmful effects of bursting firecrackers on health and the environment.
In a public statement, the SPCB reminded residents that the manufacture, sale, and bursting of firecrackers have been banned in the state for over a decade. “Bursts of firecrackers release harmful pollutants that deteriorate air quality, posing health risks particularly for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. The resulting noise pollution also significantly affects public well-being,” the board noted.
The SPCB encouraged citizens to avoid single-use plastics during the festivities to prevent littering and maintain cleanliness. The board also suggested alternatives to firecrackers, such as decorative light displays, stressing that prioritizing community well-being and environmental preservation should be central to Diwali celebrations.