It’s been nearly two months since Dimapur police issued an
advisory about the use of fireworks days before Diwali in an attempt to reduce
air and noise pollution as well as possible tragic accidents it could cause.
What many could have forgotten is that the regulations were not just for Diwali
but throughout the festive season, ending the New Year. As per the advisory
issued by the Commissioner of Police (CP) Dimapur, citizens are allowed to use
only improved or green crackers certified by the Petroleum and Explosive Safety
Organisation (PESO), that too only on specific festivals and during certain
time windows. On top of that, green crackers can be used only from 11:55 pm to
12:30 am on the eve of Christmas and New Year, while items that exceed 125 dB
(AI) or 145 dB pk noise level and those containing harmful substances are
banned. Bursting of fireworks in silence zones like hospitals and educational
institutions is also prohibited. Irrespective of whether or not the police
serve a reminder as the festive season has set in, we don’t have to be told to
protect the environment for our own good and for the next generation. We should
take responsibility for our actions.
Fireworks have been associated with Diwali for centuries,
becoming a significant part of celebration. However, surveys have indicated
that Indians are better informed about the negative impact of firecrackers on
the environment today than they were a few years ago, amid aggressive awareness
campaigns about its ill-effect. The progress may be slow but the decrease in
use of fireworks as part of celebration is noticeable, thanks to the
intervention of the Supreme Court and restrictions imposed by several states.
Sadly, the same can’t be said about Nagaland. People here, especially in urban
areas, have picked up what their counterparts from other states have discarded.
With each passing year, we hear the sound of fireworks getting louder and the
air thicker with dust during Christmas and New Year. This trend, which was
unheard of not long ago, needs to be arrested, as fireworks can cause serious
injuries and a harrowing time to the elderly and the sick, particularly those
suffering from asthma, respiratory and other diseases. Homes and streets here
are already illuminated by decorative electrical lights in tune with Christmas
spirit. Why spoil it all by polluting the air and disturbing the peaceful
environment? Let’s give peace a chance this festive season. Also avoid
overspeeding and driving under the influence of alcohol.
