Bhubaneswar, Oct 18: As Diwali approaches, the Commissionerate Police of Bhubaneswar has issued a set of guidelines regarding the use and sale of firecrackers, aligning with the directives of the Supreme Court.

The guidelines aim to ensure a safe and pollution-free celebration while maintaining public order.

According to the advisory, only green firecrackers — which are considered less polluting — will be permitted for sale and use during the festival. The public is allowed to burst these approved firecrackers only between 7 PM and 9 PM on Diwali day.

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DCP Jagmohan Meena emphasized that strict patrolling will be enforced across the capital city to ensure compliance. “We will intensify patrolling during Diwali. Action will be taken against those selling unauthorized or local firecrackers,” he stated.

The police have already launched crackdowns on illegal firecracker vendors and have warned against the sale of non-certified or banned items. The move comes in response to growing concerns over air and noise pollution, especially during the festive season.

The Supreme Court had earlier mandated the use of green crackers and restricted bursting hours to minimize environmental and health hazards. The Bhubaneswar police’s guidelines are a direct implementation of these orders.

Citizens are urged to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with law enforcement. The police have also appealed to the public to report any violations or illegal sales to the nearest police station.

With these measures in place, the authorities hope to ensure a safe, eco-friendly, and joyous Diwali for all residents of Bhubaneswar.