Ahead of Diwali, the Nagpur Police has announced a blanket ban on the bursting and selling of firecrackers. The cops clarified that the selling and bursting of green crackers would be allowed.
Green crackers are low emission fireworks permitted by the Supreme Court for celebrations to a moderate degree during festivals.
Commissioner of Police (CP) Amitesh Kumar said that a joint meeting of City police, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) would be called this week in this regard.
“Special teams will be formed to check illegal sale of firecrackers in the city,†said the CP, Police station officers have been already directed to take stern action against the sellers of firecrackers. Bursting of green crackers will be allowed till 10 pm.
“We are waiting for the order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). If NGT will not issue an order, the City police will pass an order under Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to prohibit selling and bursting of firecrackers,†the CP said.
CP further said that footfall at Itwari, Dharampeth, Mahal and Sitabuldi suddenly increased on Monday as compared to last week. “We have intensified patrolling in these areas to curb pick-pocketing and other crimes,†he said.
The police have also intensified CCTV monitoring in.the market places to keep watch on the anti-social elements.
Similarly, the police have increased their presence in the Sarafa market area and appealed to the citizens to remain alert during shopping in the market places or crowded areas.
