Ban on bursting firecrackers in Sikkim during Diwali continues to be in force

GANGTOK: Sikkim government has banned bursting firecrackers during Diwali last year considering public health and safety paramount.

The order issued on last Diwali by office of the chief secretary continues to be in force till date, said the government in a notification today.

The notification stated that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more than 50 lakh deaths worldwide.

The pandemic claims as many as 375 lives in the state.

According to Health and Medical Authorities COVID gravely impacts the respiratory tract of human beings which subsequently leads to cardiovascular other complications.

And, bursting firecrackers results in the release of obnoxious and poisonous gases in the atmosphere which resulted in severe air pollution that is extremely hazardous for human health.

During the pandemic when the respiratory system of millions has already been compromised,further inhalation of toxic gases released from the bursting of firecrackers is likely to aggravate respiratory distress disorder.

Therefore keeping public interest in mind all SPs, SDPOs, SHOs of PS are directed to enforce the order of the government strictly in letter and spirit.

Further strict checking of shops suspected of selling firecrackers illegally may be conducted and firecracker seized as per law.

The government further urged the various local communities of the state for their corporations for smooth enforcement of the order.