Overview
- MPCB and Awaaz Foundation tested 25 popular firecracker types at RCF grounds in Chembur, following CPCB protocols with meters placed four metres from each burst.
- Officials said every sample was within permissible noise limits, while Awaaz argued open-ground, single-burst tests understate real-world levels in dense urban settings.
- Awaaz reported packaging non-compliance, saying 18 of the 25 lacked required decibel markings and 15 had no QR or barcode disclosing composition.
- MPCB has not yet released the decibel logs to Awaaz; a spokesperson said a detailed report would be issued Friday, with samples headed for lab analysis of chemical content.
- Festival oversight expands this year, with noise monitoring at 45 locations in Mumbai and 158 across Maharashtra, alongside guidance to use certified green crackers carrying PESO and CSIR-NEERI identifiers.