Diwali 2017: Champahati, hub of firecrackers in West Bengal

However, this year the spirit of Diwali may dampen a bit due to series of measures by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) to check the use of banned firecrackers.

By Chennabasaveshwar

Updated: Monday, October 16, 2017, 18:34 [IST]

Diwali 2017: Champahati and Nungi, two villages in South 24 Parganas district are a key hub of fireworks manufacturing in West Bengal. Ahead of Diwali and Kali puja, thousands throng to Champahati and Nungi to buy high-quality firecrackers available for sale at dirt cheap rates.

However, this year the spirit of Diwali may dampen a bit due to series of measures by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) to check the use of banned firecrackers.

A woman making fire crackers

Before Diwali, police have been asked to be vigilant and conduct raids in areas where crackers are manufactured particularly in South 24 Parganas. Raids are being held at various places to check the selling of high sounding crackers.

A woman making firecrackers ahead of Diwali festival, at Champahati village in South 24 Parganas on Sunday. PTI Photo

Worker's hands soaked in gun powder

A worker making firecrackers ahead of Diwali festival, at Champahati village in South 24 Parganas on Sunday. PTI Photo

According to reports, if there is any complaint of the bursting of firecrackers beyond the permissible limit of 90-decibel, the police will measure the upward sound limit with the device and take action.

Workers are busy as the festive season is approaching

WBPCB has launched a massive awareness programme urging people not to burst crackers that violate the 65-decibel limit. Booklets have been prepared and a book has been released by the state Environment Department.

Villagers making firecrackers ahead of Diwali festival, at Champahati village in South 24 Parganas on Sunday. PTI Photo