The government had earlier reported a marked decrease in sales of fireworks and firecrackers in the capital.

BBC: China media: New Year haze

Throughout the Chinese New Year holidays, fireworks and firecrackers are traditionally set off to ward off evil spirits when ushering in the new year.

BBC: China media: New Year haze

On Saturday night, the government counted a total of 839 fires caused by revellers setting off fireworks and firecrackers across the country on Lunar New Year's Eve.

BBC: China media: New Year haze

Worshippers pray for prosperity and well being for the year that lies ahead, with fireworks and firecrackers proffering plenty of raucous razzle-dazzle when devotional formalities come to a close.

BBC: India��s festival of lights

Beijing has launched a firework safety index during the upcoming Chinese New Year holidays that advises against setting off fireworks and firecrackers in poor weather conditions, China Daily reports.

BBC: China media: Pyongyang warned

Beijing News reports an appeal from environmental groups for residents to light fewer firecrackers and fireworks - an important tradition - in order to keep the air clean.

BBC: China morning round-up: Lunar New Year

There are festivities in the streets with firecrackers, fireworks, and sparklers.

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