POKHARA, Oct 21: Civil society leaders have demanded not to light fireworks and crackers during the festival of Tihar. Stating that there is a risk and negative impact on the environment, the civic leaders have urged the District Administration Office, Kaski, to take necessary action to stop the use of fireworks and crackers.

The civic leaders including Civil society Kaski Coordinator Indra Kamal Manandhar, National Heritage and People's Rights Protection Committee Nepal chairperson Bishnu Hari Adhikari handed over a three-point memorandum to Kaski Chief District Officer Jayanarayan Acharya stating that it is illegal to use fireworks and crackers.

They claimed that Kaski district was declared a no firecracker zone in 2016. They have demanded the use of fireworks and crackers in Tihar and New Year in the name of tourist attraction be discouraged. Similarly, it is mentioned in the memorandum to ban the sale of alcohol and tobacco products within a distance of 100 meters from schools, temples, hospitals, playgrounds and religious places.

Likewise, the Pokhara Metropolitan City has declared a 'no-horn' zone at the main intersections. However as it is currently ineffective, the civic leaders have demanded the authorities implement it effectively.

 
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