ITANAGAR, Nov 2: The All Arunachal Tribal Students’ Union (AATSU) has urged the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) district administration to crack down on unauthorised firecracker sales and introduce year-round pollution-control measures to address growing environmental concerns in the capital region.
In a representation submitted to the ICR Deputy Commissioner, the student body sought immediate intervention against the unauthorised sale, distribution and storage of firecrackers, particularly during Diwali. It asked the administration to initiate enforcement action within 24 hours of receiving the representation.
AATSU also urged the authorities to consider a complete ban on the sale, distribution, storage and use of firecrackers in accordance with applicable laws.
The union cited concerns over smoke and haze, plastic waste, improper drainage, unregulated garbage disposal and excessive noise, saying these were posing risks to public health and environmental safety. It called for the identification of authorised firecracker wholesalers, distributors and retailers, inspection of shops and warehouses, and legal action against unauthorised sellers and violators.
Emphasising that pollution control should extend beyond festive occasions, AATSU sought regular monitoring and enforcement during Diwali, New Year celebrations, political victory celebrations, birthdays and other public and private events.
The union also called for comprehensive measures to control construction dust, generator emissions, industrial pollution, waste burning, plastic disposal, water contamination and noise pollution.
Seeking regular Air Quality Index (AQI) monitoring across the Capital Complex, AATSU urged the administration to make the findings publicly accessible and initiate corrective measures whenever pollution levels exceed prescribed standards.
It has sought a formal response and a comprehensive environmental action plan within 15 days, covering permanent environmental monitoring, regular AQI testing and stronger enforcement.
The union clarified that it was not opposed to Diwali or other festivals and acknowledged their cultural significance. However, it maintained that celebrations should not compromise public health and environmental safety.
AATSU also offered to cooperate with the administration through awareness campaigns, environmental vigilance and reporting suspected unauthorised firecracker sales.