Pune: A relatively excessive noise-free Diwali this year may happen, according to the Pune regional office of Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) that tested noise levels of 14 types of crackers from different stalls on Wednesday and found that they are lower than the permissible limit of 125 dB. MPCB sub-regional officer Nitin Shinde also said that his office would be monitoring the noise pollutionat 18 spots on two days— November 12 and 14— corresponding with Laxmi Puja and Padwa as these are the days when most people burst firecrackers.The spots include commercial, residential and silent zones.Before Diwali, four more air quality monitoring stations have been installed taking the total number to 15. We tested small, medium and big crackers. Small and medium crackers like Laxmi tota, double bar, lavangi, sutali tota and others produced a noise of less than 100dB when lit. Other crackers like Diamond 1000, 2000 or even 50 shots have a noise level of above 100 but less than 125dB, Shinde said. We also published the following articles recentlyCelebrate Diwali with lights, not polluting crackers: City celebsA recent report states that Kolkatas air quality has worsened compared to last year, and concerns are rising as Diwali approaches. The smoke from firecrackers during the festival contributes to the pollution, causing health issues for many, especially the elderly and those with respiratory ailments. Celebrities are urging people to celebrate responsibly by using lights and diyas instead of bursting crackers. The pollution from firecrackers can lead to respiratory infections, allergies, and other diseases. Suggestions for a sustainable Diwali include avoiding firecrackers, using biodegradable wrapping papers, and opting for eco-friendly decorations.Mumbai Air Pollution: MPCB issues notices to four concrete mixing plants for polluting airThe Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued compliance notices to four ready mix concrete (RMC) plants in Mumbai for not adhering to pollution norms. The notices have been issued under the Air Pollution and Control of Prevention Act, 1981. The MPCB has asked the plants to explain why they have not followed norms such as tyre washing of transporting vehicles, installation of dust collectors, and total covering of the plant setup. Two RMC plants have already been served with closure notices. The MPCB is conducting a survey of RMC plants as they contribute to air pollution in the city.Mumbai Air Pollution: HC halts transport of debris, sets time limit for crackersThe Bombay High Court has taken action to address the worsening air pollution in Mumbai. The court has halted the transportation of debris to and from construction sites, curtailed the bursting of crackers during Diwali, and made officers personally liable for any lapses in implementing the BMCs mitigation norms. The court has also instructed municipal and police authorities to limit the bursting of firecrackers to the hours of 7 pm to 10 pm during Diwali.

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