Mayor Gautam Deb and representatives of a number of social organisations here have sought stern steps from police and the administration to prevent the use of banned sound crackers during Diwali.

The mayor has also asked the police to put all efforts to prevent illegal gambling, too.

“We have found that despite various restrictions, a section of people ignore the government guidelines and burst banned crackers during Kali Puja and Diwali. I requested the commissioner (of Siliguri Metropolitan Police) to take strict steps to prevent such illegal activities,” said Deb here on Thursday, after holding a preparatory meeting for Diwali and Kali Puja.

The mayor said he urged the police to keep a close watch on eateries and bars to prevent gambling.

“Such places should not be allowed to remain open uncontrolled throughout the night,” Deb said.

Kali Puja organisers across Siliguri should carry out awareness drives in pandals on dengue prevention and the ban on plastic carry bags, he said.

Representatives from different city organisations will hold an awareness rally on Friday for a noise-free Diwali.

“Across Siliguri, hardly any curb is followed on use of banned crackers. That is why we will announce a helpline number in a day or two where any resident can inform such illegal practices. We will immediately forward it to the authority concerned for necessary steps,” said Animesh Bose, the programme-coordinator of Himalayan Nature & Adventure Foundation.

Over the past couple of weeks, the police have conducted raids in and around Siliguri and seized banned crackers.

“Our officers are keeping a close watch. If anybody is found storing or selling banned crackers, he will face legal consequences. People should only visit cracker markets set up by the administration and use crackers on sale at its stalls,” said a cop.