Meghalaya plans Kali Puja, Diwali amid safety norms

Shillong: Kali Puja and Diwali will be celebrated in Meghalaya with strict adherence to environmental safety norms. Various district authorities have issued prohibitory orders and guidelines regarding the use of fireworks to ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of all citizens.

Orders issued under Section 163 BNNS by the district magistrates state that the prohibition is necessary for public safety.

“The sale of firecrackers shall only be through licensed traders, and it shall be ensured that these traders sell only those firecrackers which have been permitted and are in compliance with Central Pollution Control Board guidelines,” an order specified.

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“Firecrackers with a noise level above 125 decibels and the bursting of crackers within 100 meters of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health care centres, educational institutions, courts, religious places, or any other areas declared as silent zones by the concerned authorities are prohibited,” the order said. The order also specified that the bursting of firecrackers on Diwali would be permitted only from 8 pm to 10 pm.

Meanwhile, temples, community puja pandals, shops, marketplaces, and private residences have been illuminated to celebrate Kali Puja and Deepawali, the ‘Festival of Lights’.

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VMC tightens safety protocol for firecracker vendors to ensure safety

With Diwali nearing, the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation and fire department have intensified safety measures for firecracker vendors to prevent incidents like the major fire two years ago. Permits for stalls are restricted to specific locations, away from residential zones and petrol stations. Green crackers are being ensured through inspections by the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board.

More trains for kali Puja and Diwali

To manage the surge of passengers during Kali Puja and Diwali, Eastern Railway's Sealdah division will run additional suburban trains on Thursday and Friday nights. These trains will stop at all enroute stations. Special trains will also be operated for holidaymakers from various cities. South-Eastern Railway will operate over 30 special trains to different parts of India.

Kali Puja, cultural progs to unfold during Diwali week

Mumbai is abuzz with Diwali festivities featuring lights, garlands, and busy bazaars. Despite high gold prices dampening sales slightly, buyers still flocked to jewellery stores for Dhanteras. Cultural celebrations include various Puja rituals, musical performances, and welfare activities. A notable installation made from recycled plastic bottles at Cooperage Ground is drawing attention.