Delhi government orders crackdown on illegal firecrackers

The Delhi government on Tuesday ordered a crackdown on illegally imported toxic firecrackers during Diwali and enforcement of Supreme Court's directions banning bursting of crackers after 10 p.m.

The government constituted 11 district-wise teams headed by area Sub Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) for enforcement. These teams will conduct surprise inspections and take action against sellers and buyers of illegal crackers, a government statement said.

"Delhi police has also been requested to take necessary action as per provisions of law and also to provide assistance to teams set up by Delhi government," it added.

The decisions were taken in a review meeting headed by Environment Minister Imran Hussain. The meeting was attended by senior officers of Environment Department and Delhi Pollution Control Committee along with SDMs of all districts.

During the meeting, Hussain directed officials to increase public awareness about the Supreme Court order of last year banning bursting of firecrackers between 10 pm to 6 am.

He appealed to residents of Delhi to effectively participate in the anti-firecracker campaign by desisting from buying and bursting harmful and loud noise producing crackers.

The government is organising an awareness programme about this on October 27 (Thursday) at the Central Park in Connaught Place.

--IANS

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