Despite rising concerns over air pollution, 828 firecracker vendors in Nagpur have been issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to operate during the festive season. The decision, overseen by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) in coordination with local authorities, seeks to balance cultural traditions and economic livelihoods while urging vendors to comply with safety and environmental guidelines. Environmentalists, including Dr. Ashok Kumar from the Nagpur Environmental Forum and Smita Deshmukh of Green Nagpur Initiative, have expressed concern that widespread use of firecrackers could significantly deteriorate air quality and pose health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. They have advocated for the adoption of eco-friendly and “green” firecrackers to minimize harmful emissions. Vendors welcomed the NOCs as essential for sustaining livelihoods during the festive period, pledging to follow safety norms. Authorities have also launched awareness campaigns encouraging citizens to celebrate responsibly and reduce the environmental impact of celebrations. The move highlights the ongoing tension between cultural practices and environmental sustainability, with officials attempting to strike a balance between tradition, public health, and economic interests. #NagpurFirecrackers #NOCsIssued #NMC #NagpurFirecrackers #NOCsIssued #FestivalSeason2025 #AirPollutionConcerns #EcoFriendlyCelebration #VendorSupport #PublicSafety #FestiveTradition
