Cracker influx from NCR derailed ban, say experts

GAPS in enforcement, limited monitoring and easy access to firecrackers from the NCR region where restrictions were slack were largely responsible for the widespread flouting of the cracker ban in Delhi on Diwali, experts have opined.

Although the Delhi government had set up 377 enforcement teams and spread awareness through local associations to ensure compliance with the firecracker ban, neighbourhoods across the eastern and western parts of the city reported large-scale flouting of the restrictions.

experts highlighted that unchecked sales and an influx of firecrackers from neighbouring regions combined with weak on-ground presence of authorities contributed to the mass violations that left the city shrouded in smog on Thursday.

A senior Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) official said they conducted several awareness campaigns against

bursting crackers but enforcing the ban was the Delhi Police’s responsibility.

however, a senior police official denied the “failure of administration” charge, while asserting that legal actions were taken against people found flouting the ban.