Crackers are an inseparable part of Diwali celebrations. But several city-based organisations seemed to be aware about its negative effects are promoting eco-friendly Diwali this time.
Taking the lead organisations like Punjabi Samaj and educational cradles like Xavier School of Management ( XLRI), and National Institute of Technology-Adityapur have given a call for safe Diwali.
Punjabi Samaj, an apex body of Punjabi community in the city, has decided to celebrate cracker less Diwali. Led by its president Gian Taneja, the organisation has not only called for cracker less Diwali but also promoting the use of earthen ‘Diyas’ and not imported Chinese lights.
“There is also an increasing concern over environmental pollution and the safety issues involved in making and bursting fire crackers. On the day of Diwali and the following days, the particulate matter in the atmosphere is at its pinnacle that can attribute to serious health issues. So under the banner of Punjabi Samaj we have decided to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali,” said Gian Taneja, a prominent businessman of Jamshedpur. "Crackers cause pollution. Not only it harms the environment but also patients who have asthma. So, we will not burst crackers,” noted the president.
Meanwhile, schools like Greenfield at Sonari are also educating children to shun use of crackers. "Children cannot be away from crackers. So, we have decided to organise Diyotsav to at least tell them to use sound less crackers.
On that day, students, parents and teachers will participate to tie Diwali Suraksha bandhan (like a friendship band) to their fellow students, teachers and guests," said Ekta Agarwal, Principal, Greenfield School.
Last year, the DBMS English School in Kadma organised a rally on cracker free Diwali. Students of class III from the Junior Safe Club went out with slogans only to convey the message that diyas are better than crackers as the latter only harm people and the environment.
So, about 250 children guided by their teachers went around the school and the neighbouring areas to make sure that they could convince people.
A student of NIT- Aidtyapur Rishab Kumar said that at their campus too they are promoting the need for noiseless Diwali. “Firecrackers are obvious contributors to noise and dust pollution, emitting hazardous chemicals.
So why not think of ways to celebrate a green Diwali? Instead of bursting firecrackers try meeting up with friends and cousins, even the long-lost ones, exchanging sweets and inviting people over for lunch or dinner.
We could also bring a smile and cheer to those less privileged by visiting orphanages or homes for the underprivileged and spending quality time with them” he noted.
On the other hand for special children of Jamshedpur, Diwali is more than just a celebration of light.
It is that time of the year when they are at their creative best as they get together to make an amazing variety of Diwali decorative items. From designer candles to diyas they make everything to make the festival special for everyone.