Considering the Diwali celebrations and keeping a check on noise pollution, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of East Khasi Hills District – Isawanda Laloo, IAS, restricted the bursting of firecrackers from 8 PM-10 PM throughout the district.

“Bursting of crackers have also been prohibited in areas that fall within 100 meters of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health care centers, educational institutions, courts, religious places or any other areas declared as silent zones,” – the order stated. It also prohibited the sale, purchase, and procurement of foreign-made firecrackers.

“The sale of firecrackers shall only be through licensed traders and ensure that these licensed traders sell only those firecrackers permitted by the office and are in compliance to Central Pollution Control Board guidelines,” – the order further reads.

In the order dated October 21, 2022, the district administration has prohibited the use of firecrackers generating noise levels exceeding l25 dB (Al) or 145 dB (C) pk at a four-meter distance from the point of bursting.

The release further added, “Use of Audio Systems shall conform to the ambient noise level within the prescribed limit of the Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules 2000 as amended, i.e., Audio System fitted with Sound limiter.”