The Punjab Pollution Control Board has issued directions to all districts to observe a clean Diwali. Deputy Commissioners have been requested to convene a meeting with all school principals and heads to ensure sensitisation regarding Diwali.

Instructions have also been issued to traders/sellers not to sell firecrackers that generate noise exceeding 125 db. Orders have also been issued that prohibit bursting of firecrackers after 10 pm.  PCR vehicles will keep an eye to see that the instructions are observed.

The PPCB will also set up three ambient air quality monitoring stations at different places in the district to monitor the air quality.

These stations will be operated one week before Diwali — October 12 from 6 am to next day 6 am and on October 19 (Diwali Day) from 6 am to 6 am. NGOs have also been directed to ensure sensitisation regarding clean Diwali.

As per the guidelines, school heads must sensitise students of the ill-effects of bursting firecrackers and exhort them to celebrate ‘Green Diwali’.  Noise measuring devices are available at the regional office of the Punjab Pollution Control Board.

NGOs have also been requested to organise activities, including marches, in collaboration with educational institutions, for creating awareness among people. The NCC/NSS in charges of schools/colleges/ITIs and universities have also been requested to mobilise volunteers to spread the message of ‘Green Diwali’.