Overcome smog, China limit the sale of firecrackers during the Lunar New Year

In an effort to tackle air pollution, the Chinese authorities take steps to limit the sale of firecrackers and fireworks during Chinese New Year celebration, which falls on Saturday (28/01) and lasted for several weeks.

Lodging in the capital, Beijing, the local government only issued permits to 511 stores to sell firecrackers and fireworks during Chinese New Year celebration is often called Chinese New Year this year. The amount is less than last year which reached 719 stores.

Local authorities also called on the residents of the capital to refrain rang firecrackers and fireworks.

"Let's take action enthusiastically to silence firecrackers, or reduce the firecrackers and fireworks, and then let Beijing have sky bluer, the air is fresher and the environment more beautiful and safer in the New Year," the Beijing authorities call.

While the Shanghai Municipal Government only gives seven licenses, whereas last year there were 70 shops selling firecrackers.

Henan province even take more drastic measures by banning firecrackers throughout the province, located in the central part of China.

Chinese New Year celebration usually enlivened with fireworks and firecrackers are believed to chase away evil spirits.

However, ignition of fireworks and firecrackers is feared to worsen the air pollution that has blanketed the capital and other areas.