Delhi government strengthens drive against imported firecrackers ahead Diwali

New Delhi: The Delhi government on Tuesday resolved to strengthen its drive against imported firecrackers ahead of Diwali, ordering inspection teams formed in this regard to check markets and godowns more frequently.

In a review meeting attended by senior officials of DPCC, Police, SDMs and Deputy Commissioners among others, Environment Minister Imran Hussain directed that strict action be taken against those found violating the norms.

"The 11-district-wise inspecting teams of area SDMs and Executive Engineers (DPCC) constituted to check availability of imported firecrackers in the market should enhance their field inspections.

"The team(s) of officers from Licensing Unit constituted to check godowns randomly for availability of imported firecrackers in the market should augment their vigilance and field visits," an official statement said.

Hussain had held a similar review meeting on October 13. He also ordered that court orders regarding noise pollution and prevention especially relating to complete ban on bursting of sound emitting firecrackers between 10 PM to 6 AM will have to be enforced.

"Arrangements made for monitoring of ambient Air & Noise levels by DPCC on pre and during Diwali nights should be popularised," it said.