Ahead of the festival of Diwali, Maharashtra along with several states and UT governments have taken a major decision to ban firecrackers due to the rising cases of coronavirus.
The pollution caused by them increases the risk of COVID-19 patients. The air pollution in India as the winter sets in has been a matter of concern especially in the national capital and its surrounding areas.
Mumbai BMC issued a circular advising not to use firecrackers during Diwali as govt decided to ban it .although you can fire full Jhadi and Anardana during pooja time in restricted personal area but other firecrackers will not be allowed .
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on November 5 decided to ban firecrackers in the national capital after reviewing the COVID-19 situation. The Delhi CM said, “Coronavirus cases have increased due to the festival season and pollution. It was decided to ban crackers in Delhi and ramp up medical infrastructure, among other measures.”
He appealed people to shun firecrackers for the safety of their kids and family. He said, “we will celebrate Diwali together and won’t burst firecrackers in any condition. There will be a wonderful atmosphere and good vibes as two crore people will perform Laxmi Pujan. It will lead to well being in each household.”
Maharashtra government issued guidelines for the citizens to keep in mind while celebrating Diwali. The government cautioned against bursting crackers citing ecological concerns as it damages the environment and adds to the air pollution and noise pollution.
The Karnataka government also decided to ban the use of firecrackers during Diwali this year, saying it may badly impact the health of those who have already been infected with Covid-19. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said, “We have taken a decision to ban firecrackers in the state, in wake of Covid pandemic. The order regarding the ban will be issued soon.”
On Thursday, state health minister Dr K Sudhakar held a meeting with the state’s Covid-19 expert committee and technical advisory committee. The committee had deliberated on the pros and cons of bursting firecrackers and had recommended a ban. “As the smoke can badly impact the health of those who have already been infected by Covid-19 and even those who have not, we will place the committee’s report before the Chief Minister and he will take a final decision within a day or two,” he had said.
