Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has permitted the bursting of firecrackers for only two hours on Diwali 2026, allowing the activity between 6am and 7am and 7pm and 8pm.
The restrictions have been imposed to curb air and noise pollution during the festival. The government has urged people to celebrate Diwali in an environment-friendly manner and avoid firecrackers that generate excessive smoke and noise.
The move is aimed at preventing pollution of air, water and land, besides reducing noise-related health risks, including hearing damage.
The government has also advised the public to avoid firecrackers that cause high levels of pollution and opt for less polluting alternatives.
Following the Supreme Court’s landmark 2018 order, the manufacture and sale of green firecrackers, which cause comparatively less pollution, have been permitted subject to prescribed conditions.