Mumbai Residents Ignore Firecracker Restrictions; Bursting Begins Early Despite BMC, MPCB Appeals

Despite repeated appeals by the Brihan mumbai Municipal Corporation ( BMC ) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali, several parts of Mumbai witnessed widespread firecracker bursting. Fireworks reportedly began early in the morning and continued throughout the day, raising concerns over worsening air and noise pollution.

The celebrations came amid growing concerns over Mumbai's air quality, which is affected by vehicular emissions, construction dust and industrial pollution. The smoke released by firecrackers further adds to the concentration of particulate matter in the atmosphere, posing health risks, particularly to children, senior citizens and people with respiratory illnesses.

Despite restrictions and repeated appeals from the civic administration, firecrackers were reportedly burst in several neighbourhoods. Their sale on roads and at unauthorised locations also raised questions about the enforcement of existing regulations.

The BMC had urged residents to avoid firecrackers and opt for environmentally friendly celebrations. The MPCB had also appealed to citizens to minimise activities contributing to air and noise pollution. However, the widespread use of firecrackers highlighted the challenges faced by authorities in ensuring compliance with pollution-control measures during festivals.