By Our Correspondent
CUTTACK/BHUBANESWAR: Ending all speculations, the Orissa High Court on Monday permitted the sale and use of green crackers in the State. However, the green crackers need to be approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), the court said.
The bursting of crackers will only be allowed for two hours on Diwali from 8 PM to 10 PM, the court added. The All Odisha Fireworks Dealers Association had moved the High Court seeking permission for sale of green crackers in Odisha on Diwali.
Claiming to protect the health of the people of the state and to curb the spread of the viral infection, the state government on September 30 had banned the sale and use of crackers in the state from October 1, 2021.
The Odisha Government on Monday issued fresh directions for the sale and use of fireworks during the upcoming festivals of Diwali, Chhath Puja and Kartik Purnima. Only green fireworks have been permitted for sale and use during these festivities.
According to an order by the Special Relief Commissioner, burning of crackers amidst COVID-19 pandemic situation will result in adverse effects on the health of the public and the vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, persons with co-morbidities and others who develop respiratory problems during the ensuing winter season.
The people are advised to perform rituals at home avoiding mass gatherings and adhering to the COVID-19 safety protocols such as physical distancing, use of face mask/ covering and handwashing /hand sanitizer. Also, people are advised to use permitted green crackers with utmost safety/ caution and not to use in public places.
Any person found violating this order shall be punished under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws.
