BS Yediyurappa said: “Call on people to celebrate Deepavali in a simple way using only green crackers”.
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediurappa has rethought the firecracker ban promised on Diwali and has now authorized “green” crackers. The state had banned firecrackers for Diwali earlier this week due to the COVID-19 pandemic and how rising pollution after Diwali may affect the situation.
In a statement today, Mr. Yediyurappa said following people’s “suggestions”, “I call on people to celebrate Deepavali in a simple way using only green crackers”.
The government has taken all necessary measures to control COVID-19 and in such a situation it was appropriate to celebrate Deepavali in a simple and meaningful way with the health of citizens and children in mind, said Mr. Yediyurappa.
Several states, including Rajasthan, Odisha and Delhi, have already decided to ban firecrackers ahead of next week’s big festival.
The coronavirus is affecting the lungs and the rise in pollution that takes place with Diwali and the onset of winter is expected to cause the numbers to increase.
Delhi is already climbing the charts with a record of more than 7,000 people testing positive in 24 hours ending last night. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the nation’s capital was attending its third summit.
