Yogesh K Porwar
Ahead of Deepavali,the authorities have issued a 19-point advisory urging the public to celebrate the festival safely and in an eco-friendly manner,while warning of legal action against those violating the prescribed timings and safety regulations for bursting crackers.
According to the guidelines,people have been advised to purchase and use only certified green crackers and burst them strictly between 8 pm and 10 pm,in accordance with the directions of the Supreme Court.
The public has been cautioned against bursting crackers in and around sensitive locations such as hospitals, petrol pumps, gas stations,religious places,old-age homes and childcare centres.
People have also been advised to avoid bursting crackers on main roads,in crowded areas and near parked vehicles, and instead use open grounds and less-crowded spaces.
Special care should also be taken to ensure that animals are not disturbed or harmed.After bursting crackers, people must collect the remains in a bucket and completely extinguish them using water or sand. 
They have also been asked to maintain cleanliness in playgrounds,roads and open spaces.
In case of an accident,people should immediately contact 112 or 108 and seek medical assistance.
The advisory further states that the public must strictly follow all orders and instructions issued by the Government,Greater Bengaluru Authority, Police Department,Fire and Emergency Services,Health Department and Pollution Control Department.
Warning of legal action
The Police Department has warned that bursting crackers beyond the permitted 8 pm to 10 pm window or violating the stipulated regulations will invite legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Explosives Act, pollution control laws and other applicable legislation.
The public has also been urged to inform the local police about violations and illegal bursting or sale of crackers.
