Order issued under BNSS cites public safety, noise pollution and security concerns; violators to face legal action
SHOPIAN, July 6: The Shopian district administration on Monday imposed a two-month ban on the bursting of firecrackers after 10 p.m. across the district, citing concerns over public safety, excessive noise pollution and the need to ensure uninterrupted security operations.
The order, issued by District Magistrate Shishir Gupta under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, came into immediate effect and will remain in force for two months unless withdrawn earlier or modified through a subsequent order.
According to the order, the restriction prohibits the bursting of all kinds of fireworks, including firecrackers, aerial fireworks and series crackers (commonly known as laris), after 10 p.m. anywhere within the territorial limits of Shopian district.
The district administration said the decision was taken after it received reports indicating that late-night fireworks were causing serious disturbance to public tranquillity and generating excessive noise pollution, adversely affecting the health and well-being of residents.
It observed that high-intensity noise from firecrackers can lead to respiratory distress, cardiovascular complications and sleep deprivation, with the elderly, infants, patients and students being among the most vulnerable sections affected.
The order further noted that sudden explosions during night hours often create panic among the public and may hamper the operational preparedness of security forces engaged in maintaining law and order and conducting anti-terror operations by causing confusion and unnecessary alarm.
Stating that such activities pose an apprehended threat to peace and public order, the administration said immediate preventive measures had become necessary in the larger public interest.
The order also referred to directions issued by the Supreme Court of India and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which prescribe time restrictions on the use of firecrackers to minimise noise and air pollution.
Officials said the order had been issued ex parte in view of the emergent nature of the situation and would be given wide publicity through official channels and the media to ensure public awareness and compliance.
The administration warned that any person violating the order would be liable for legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, in addition to other applicable provisions of law.
