BREAKING: 'DRY DAY' declared in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills on Nov 14

SHILLONG: With Diwali 2020 just around the corner, Indian citizens across the country are preparing to party to celebrate the 'festival of lights'. If you live in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills, however, it will be mightily difficult to get your hands on alcoholic beverages. On November 14, while the entire country shall be taking part in festivities, Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills shall be observing a 'DRY DAY.'

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The Deputy Commissioner (Excise), East Khasi Hills District in an order issued on 12^th November 2020 has declared 14th November 2020 as a Dry Day in the entire District of East Khasi Hills on account of ‘Diwali’.

"All Bonded Warehouses, IMFL shops, bars, hotels, clubs and outstill shops shall remain closed on this day," the Government order added.

It needs slew of strictures have been introduced by the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills related to burning of firecrackers.

As per the order, bursting of crackers will be allowed between 8 pm and 10 pm on November 14.

The move comes in view of the National Green Tribunal’s order on use of firecrackers during the festival.

The order also prohibited sale, purchase and procurement of foreign-made firecrackers and use of joined firecrackers (series crackers or laris).

The order further bans the bursting of crackers within 100 metres of hospitals, nursing homes, health care centres, educational institutions, courts, or any other silent zones.

Sale of firecrackers is permitted through licensed traders only, the order said.

Likewise, several states -- including National Capital New Delhi -- have banned the bursting of firecrackers in view of the double whammy of pollution and COVID

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