Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) on Monday issued a set of guidelines to ensure a safe, noise-free, and environmentally friendly Diwali celebration across the state.

As per the directive, the bursting of firecrackers will only be permitted between 7 pm and 9 pm. Firecrackers exceeding the permissible noise limit of 125 dB (AI) have been strictly banned.

“The use of firecrackers has been prohibited in parks, silence zones, and within 100 meters of hospitals, educational institutions, religious places, and courts. Only green crackers certified by regulatory authorities are allowed and must be burst only in open spaces,” the OSPCB stated.

Additionally, residential areas, roads, and crowded public spaces are off-limits for firecracker use. Children below the ag

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