AMN /

The Central Pollution Control Board, CPCB, has recommended strict enforcement of stopping use of firecrackers after 10 pm. The recommendation comes amidst concern for noise and air pollution during Diwali celebrations.

CPCB conducted noise monitoring at 35 locations in seven cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Bangalore and Hyderabad on the occasion of Diwali and pre-Diwali last year.

The sound level ranged between 55 decibels to 65 decibels and maximum prescribed levels exceeded in Lucknow, Delhi followed by Mumbai and Chennai. Noise pollution can cause hypertension, high stress levels, tinnitus, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances.