States » EastPosted at: Oct 31 2026 12:19AM


Bengal Pollution Control Board opens helpline for complaints against firecracker violations during Diwali, Chhath

Kolkata, Oct 30 (UNI) Residents facing inconvenience due to bursting of firecrackers during Diwali and Chhath Puja, can report violations to the authorities through a dedicated helpline, which the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) will keep operational on November 7, 8 and 9.
The helpline numbers are 033-22023059 and 1800-345-3390.
State Environment Minister Manoj Kumar Oraon said only approved green firecrackers would be permitted, and that too within the stipulated two-hour window on each festival day. On Diwali, firecrackers can be burst between 8 pm and 10 pm, while the permitted period on Chhath Puja is from 6 am to 8 am.
“Bursting firecrackers beyond the stipulated time will not be allowed. We will strictly enforce the norms and permit only environment-friendly firecrackers. Any violation will be dealt with firmly by the police,” the minister said.
According to data from the pollution control board and city police, complaints of firecracker-related violations have been reported from residential housing complexes in different parts of Kolkata in recent years.
The WBPCB, in coordination with the police, will keep a close watch on violations of the permitted timings. The board is also planning to hold a meeting with representatives of residential housing societies in the city.
On reports of child labour at firecracker manufacturing units, Oraon said the department would alert the district administration and the state Labour Department, which would take action under the existing rules.
“We are having to bear the brunt of long-standing malpractices. Under the new regime, we will try to address these issues,” the minister said. UNI NN NST CDS
Tags: #Bengal Pollution Control Board opens helpline for complaints against firecracker violations during Diwali# Chhath
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