Diwali is the festival of lights. But over the years, it’s predominantly become a festival of crackers. With the prevalence of the coronavirus pandemic, states across India are slowly working towards curbing fireworks this year for the safety of its people. Rajasthan banned the sale of crackers for Diwali this year. Delhi only permits green crackers to be lit at 800 open spaces. And now the latest to join this bandwagon after Odisha is Karnataka. The state now bans the use of firecrackers amid the coronavirus pandemic. Read on to know more.
Karnataka Goes Cracker Free This Diwali
Karnataka Chief Minister, BS Yediyurappa decided to ban fireworks in the state due to the coronavirus pandemic. Poor air quality due to crackers can impact the health of people undergoing respiratory issues. According to NDTV, the Chief Minister, stated “We discussed this and are taking the decision to ban fireworks this Deepavali. It has been discussed and an order is being issued. This is because of COVID-19.” Well, this is indeed a cracker free Diwali for people across many states in India, including Karnataka. Meanwhile, add Hampi in Karnataka to your travel bucket list for the upcoming festivals.
Odisha Government Bans Fireworks This Diwali
The Government of Odisha has prohibited the use and sale of crackers this Diwali. The state banned crackers due to the harmful effects it causes amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The government implements this ban on fireworks from November 10 to 30. Apart from Odisha, the Karnataka government is also mulling over this decision to ban crackers this Diwali. Health and Medical Education Minister K. Sudhakar said that the final decision will be taken after consulting the Chief Minister.
Also Read: Gurugram Bans Diwali Events In Containment Zones To Combat Rise In COVID-19 Cases
Meanwhile, according to NDTV, in an official statement, Odisha government reveals “In some parts of our country and in the world, where Covid-19 appropriate behaviours have not been strictly adhered to, the resurgence of Covid-19 infection has been witnessed. A number of countries across the world have been compelled to reimpose the lockdowns and other extreme measures to contain the resurgence and further spread of the disease. The international experience shows that the coming winter season may see the further spread of the pandemic.”
Also Read: Luxury Hotel Chains In India Are Offering Great Deals, E-Gifts & Hampers To Lure Guests For Diwali
Cracker Ban In Odisha Shall Protect The Health Of Elderly, Children & People With Respiratory Issues
The Odisha government further adds, “It is generally observed that elderly persons, children, persons with comorbidities and others develop respiratory problems during winter. Further, air pollution, a higher concentration of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) in the air aggravates respiratory problems. “It is a well-known fact that burning firecrackers releases copious amounts of harmful chemicals like nitrous oxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, etc, which have a severe impact on the respiratory health of vulnerable groups. Such pollutants can further aggravate the health conditions of Covid-19 positive persons besides persons staying in home isolation.”
Also Read: Odisha To Reopen All Tourist Destinations From October With Safety Measures
Well, this year you might have to resort to virtual Diwali celebrations, coupled with homemade mithai and truly celebrate the festival of lights in a traditional manner. Light your homes with earthen lamps and other traditional lighting materials that are both eco-friendly and safe. Here are 10 festival destinations of India you must add to your wishlist.
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