Mumbai Police Takes Stern Action with 784 FIRs Against Violators of Bombay HC Order on Diwali Firecrackers

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In a significant crackdown on individuals flouting the Bombay High Court’s order on Diwali firecrackers, the Mumbai Police announced on Monday that they have filed 784 First Information Reports (FIRs). The Bombay High Court had earlier imposed restrictions on the bursting of firecrackers during Diwali, specifying a limited time frame between 8 PM and 10 PM.

In a press release, the Mumbai Police disclosed that the operations were carried out diligently across all police stations in the city from November 10, 2023, to November 12, 2023. A total of 784 cases were registered, and 806 individuals were targeted for violating the court order. The police took penal action against 734 individuals, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the court’s directives.

The aftermath of Diwali fireworks left Mumbai enveloped in a smog-filled morning. Despite enjoying clear skies and improved air quality in the days leading up to Diwali, the additional pollution from the festive fireworks contributed to the haze. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai is currently in the ‘poor’ category, with a reading of 234.

For context, the AQI scale categorizes levels from ‘good’ to ‘severe,’ and the current ‘poor’ rating suggests a concerning impact on air quality.

During a suo-moto case hearing on November 10 regarding air pollution, the Bombay High Court extended its stay on the transportation of construction debris until November 19. The court, headed by Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Girish Kulkarni, modified the timing for bursting crackers, permitting it only between 8 PM and 10 PM, unlike the previous allowance from 7 PM to 10 PM. The court also directed authorities to enforce the Supreme Court’s ban on firecrackers containing barium chemical.

Despite acknowledging the restraint shown by Mumbaikars in bursting crackers, the bench emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate pollution in the coming years. Chief Justice Upadhyaya urged citizens to maintain Mumbai’s air quality and avoid the situation witnessed in the capital. “Let’s not become Delhi. Let’s remain Mumbaikars,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of collective responsibility in combating air pollution.