Bengaluru: Karnataka Forest, Environment and Ecology Minister Ramalinga Reddy has urged people to celebrate Diwali 2026 responsibly, directing them to use only certified green crackers and limit firecracker use to reduce air and noise pollution.
The minister said firecrackers pose health risks, particularly to children, senior citizens, people with existing ailments and animals. He also raised concerns over accidents caused by unsafe storage and handling of crackers.
Citing Supreme Court directions, Reddy said firecrackers could be burst only between 8pm and 10pm. The manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of banned crackers are prohibited across the state.
He urged consumers to purchase green crackers only from authorised dealers and check for the prescribed green marking, QR code and certification on the packaging. Deputy commissioners, police and local authorities have been asked to inspect shops and take action against the sale of counterfeit or unauthorised products.
The minister also called for coordinated pollution-control measures, including clearing firecracker waste from public places and residential areas. People have been advised against bursting crackers near hospitals, schools, old-age homes and other sensitive locations.
Reddy urged schools and colleges to conduct awareness programmes and asked citizens to report violations to the police, local bodies or the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board.
