Christmas Eve celebrations in Kolkata were illuminated by the sounds and lights of firecrackers on Wednesday night, with the city witnessing a mixed adherence to existing restrictions. While a majority of neighbourhoods reportedly followed the rules, specific pockets saw violations, leading to police intervention and resident complaints.
Areas of Violation and Police Response
Reports of fireworks and cracker bursting emerged from several localities, including Kasba, Jadavpur, Thakurpukur, and Budge Budge. The noise and activity in these areas prompted complaints from local residents. In response, police patrol teams were active across the city, intervening at multiple spots to disperse groups and curb the excessive use of firecrackers.
High Compliance Amidst Sustained Efforts
Officials from the Pollution Control Board (PCB) noted that the overall compliance level remained high compared to previous years. They attributed this positive trend to sustained awareness campaigns and consistent enforcement drives conducted by the authorities. This indicates a growing public consciousness regarding the regulations surrounding celebratory fireworks.
Environmental Concerns Persist
Despite the reported high compliance, environmentalists issued a note of caution. They emphasized that even limited violations contribute significantly to both noise and air pollution, exacerbating the city's environmental challenges. Activists have urged for stricter vigilance during such celebration periods to minimize the ecological footprint of festive revelry.
The night's events highlight the ongoing balance Kolkata seeks between cultural celebrations and environmental responsibility, with enforcement agencies playing a crucial role in maintaining order.
