The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has urged residents to celebrate Deepawali responsibly, emphasizing safety, pollution control, and community spirit. Authorities have introduced a series of measures this year to ensure the festival of lights is celebrated in its true spirit, free from noise, fire hazards, and excessive pollution.
In a public appeal, Secretary (Science & Technology) and Chairman of the Andaman and Nicobar Pollution Control Committee (ANPCC), Purva Garg, called upon citizens to exercise restraint while celebrating. She appealed to the public to avoid bursting firecrackers in prohibited zones such as hospitals, educational institutions, places of worship, petrol pumps, and public roads. Firecrackers, as per official orders, are permitted only between 8 pm and 10 pm.
The appeal highlighted the need for collective responsibility in preventing accidents, reducing air and noise pollution, and ensuring a safe environment for all, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory ailments. “Celebrate the festival of lights in its true spirit,” the message urged, calling for a Diwali marked by joy and safety rather than noise and pollution.
Reinforcing this message, the Andaman and Nicobar Pollution Control Committee (ANPCC) announced comprehensive air and noise quality monitoring for the festive period. Acting in compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court of India and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Order dated October 23, 2018, the committee has implemented time restrictions on firecracker use and deployed monitoring systems across the city.
Three monitoring stations, at Aberdeen Bazaar, Dollygunj, and Chouldari, were made operational from October 13 to October 27, covering a period of seven days before and after the festival. These stations will continuously record air and noise quality data, in line with protocols set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), New Delhi.
The parameters being monitored include Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), and trace metals such as Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Arsenic (As), Aluminium (Al), Barium (Ba), and Iron (Fe). These data points are used to calculate the Air Quality Index (AQI), which classifies air conditions from “Good” to “Severe,” helping residents understand potential health risks.
In 2024, AQI levels recorded at Aberdeen Bazaar and Dollygunj stations were assessed as ‘satisfactory’, indicating only minor breathing discomfort among sensitive groups. This year, officials aim to maintain or improve that status by tightening monitoring and enforcement. The ANPCC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and reducing the environmental footprint of celebrations.
Complementing these regulatory and awareness measures, the Administration also extended the Self-Help Group (SHG) Deepawali Mela organized by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Rural Livelihood Mission (ANIRLM) under the Directorate of Rural Development. Following enthusiastic public response, the Mela at Marina Park will now continue for two additional days, October 18 and 19, from 3 pm to 9 pm.
The extension aims to provide local entrepreneurs, particularly women-led SHGs, additional opportunities to showcase their products, promote small-scale businesses, and connect with the community during the festive season. The Mela features handicrafts, homemade food items, eco-friendly decor, and traditional goods reflecting the islands’ culture and craftsmanship.
Officials stated that this extension not only supports the local economy but also reinforces the idea of a green and sustainable celebration, in line with the Administration’s broader environmental goals.
With coordinated measures, from pollution monitoring and regulated cracker usage to community-led cultural events, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration hopes to set an example of how festivals can be celebrated with joy, inclusivity, and environmental mindfulness. As Deepawali approaches on October 20, the collective appeal remains clear: light lamps, not firecrackers, and let the festival truly symbolize light over darkness.
