Why in News?
A devastating fireworks accident in Kerala (Mundathikode blaze) and safety concerns during festivals like Thrissur Pooram have renewed focus on safer alternatives to traditional fireworks.
Legal Framework Governing Fireworks in India
Statutory Framework:
- Explosives Act, 1884: Primary legislation regulating manufacture, storage, sale, and use of fireworks
- Explosive Rules, 2008: Detailed rules under the Act for implementation
Regulatory Authority:
- Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO): Nodal agency for regulating explosives
- Functions under Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Supreme Court Directives
Arjun Gopal vs Union of India (2018):
- Banned non-certified firecrackers containing barium salts
- Only PESO-approved green crackers meeting reduced-emission standards permitted
- Banned manufacture, sale, and use of joined firecrackers (series crackers or 'laris')
- Court held joined crackers caused "huge air, noise and solid waste problems"
Noise Pollution (V) In Re (2005):
- Held that noise pollution violates Article 21 (Right to Life)
- Guaranteed right to peaceful living
- Imposed restrictions on noise levels and timing of fireworks to protect public health
Primary Concerns with Traditional Fireworks
Administrative & Safety Failures
- Rampant illegal manufacturing (especially in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu)
- Unauthorized storage and lack of trained personnel
- Flouting of crowd-control norms during religious and cultural festivals
Health Hazards
| Chemical | Color | Health Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Strontium | Red | Bone growth issues in children |
| Barium | Green | Respiratory distress and muscle weakness |
| Copper | Blue | Endocrine disruption |
| Aluminium/Antimony | - | Skin and lung irritation |
Environmental Impact
- Massive spikes in PM2.5 and PM10 levels
- Contributing to severe winter smog in Northern India
- Noise pollution exceeds permissible limits of Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
- Severe trauma to infants, elderly, and animals
Cold Spark Technology
About: Advanced pyrotechnic system producing visual spark effects without explosions, loud noise, or heavy smoke
Working Mechanism:
- Uses fine metal alloy powders (titanium and zirconium)
- Heated and dispersed into air
- Reacts with oxygen to create bright, sparkler-like effects
Key Features:
- Operates at 60-100°C (vs traditional fireworks at ~1200°C)
- Low-noise, low-smoke
- Significantly reduced fire and burn risks
- Safer for humans, animals, and urban environments
Safer Alternatives to Traditional Fireworks
Green Crackers
- Developed by CSIR-NEERI (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - National Environmental Engineering Research Institute)
- Do not contain banned chemicals: barium, lithium, arsenic, or lead
- Reduce emissions by 30% to 35%
Three Main Categories:
| Category | Full Form | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SWAS | Safe Water Releaser | Releases water vapor to suppress dust (PM10 and PM2.5); eliminates Potassium Nitrate and Sulfur |
| STAR | Safe Thermite Cracker | No potassium nitrate/sulfur; lesser particulate matter and reduced sound |
| SAFAL | Safe Minimal Aluminium | Replaces aluminium with magnesium; lower particulate emissions and sound |
Technological & Visual Alternatives
Drone Shows:
- Synchronized swarms of LED-equipped drones
- Create massive, dynamic 3D images in the sky
- Examples: Intel drone shows, Beating Retreat ceremony in New Delhi
Laser and Light Shows:
- High-powered, choreographed laser beams
- Synchronized with music
- No physical debris, smoke, or explosive hazard
Projection Mapping:
- Intricate, animated visuals projected onto buildings, monuments, or temples
- Simulates celebratory feel of fireworks
Cold Spark Machines (Sparkulars):
- Produce shower of sparks resembling traditional fireworks
- Burn at around 15°C to 20°C
- Non-flammable, no smoke
- Safe for close-proximity and indoor use
Constitutional and Legal Provisions
- Article 21: Right to Life and peaceful living
- Explosives Act, 1884: Statutory regulation
- Explosive Rules, 2008: Implementation rules
- Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000: Permissible noise limits