The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a total ban on the manufacturing, stocking, and selling of firecrackers in several NCR districts, following the Supreme Court’s directive. The restriction covers Meerut, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddh Nagar (Noida), Bulandshahr, Hapur, Baghpat, Shamli, and Muzaffarnagar.
Strict Action Under Environmental Law
Authorities have made it clear that anyone caught breaking this rule will face legal consequences under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The penalties include imprisonment of up to five years, fines reaching ₹1 lakh, or both. Additionally, if violations continue even after conviction, offenders may have to pay an extra fine of ₹5,000 per day.
Police Encourage Public Cooperation
To ensure strict enforcement, the police have appealed to residents to report any unlawful activity related to the making, storing, or selling of firecrackers, whether offline or online. Citizens can file complaints through multiple channels:
- UP Police emergency helpline number 112
- WhatsApp at 7570000100
- SMS at 7233000100
- Social media handles @112UttarPradesh
- The official Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board website
This measure is aimed at protecting public health and curbing hazardous pollution levels during festive seasons. Authorities are urging people to cooperate and help create a safer, cleaner environment.
