‘Cracker ban unlikely to make a difference’

The Punjab and Haryana High Court, concerned over the poor air quality, has restricted bursting of crackers on the occasion of Diwali between 6.30 pm and 9.30 pm. Residents feel the implementation of the order is a Herculean task. Residents apprised The Tribune of what they felt about it.

Tough action expected

The ban on cracker sale and restriction for bursting crackers during Diwali is not expected to dampen the spirit and enthusiasm of the people who celebrate this joyous festival. In fact, this will ensure very few injuries and also reduce air and noise pollution, giving people relatively a clean environment to breathe in. Will Ludhianvis adhere to these restrictions and instead celebrate the festival by lighting earthen lamps, exchanging greetings and spreading the message of love and peace besides extending a helping hand to the downtrodden? It’s highly unlikely. It appears that the government will act tough against the offenders. — Dr Ashwani K Malhotra

Pride issue for some

This is a good move by the judiciary. Crackers create a lot of hassles in terms of sound and air pollution, but people in large numbers like to burn crackers because they have been waiting for this day. This tradition of bursting crackers has been carried from generation to generation. Moreover, it’s a pride issue for some families as they think the more they burst crackers, the higher neighbours discuss about their spending capabilities. Diwali is the festival of lights so the main focus should be laid on lighting. Excess of lighting causes global warming. If people are sensitised towards it, the whole country will be free of air and noise pollution caused by crackers. — Mahesh Hiremath

Better late than never

The job of every government is to protect the life of its people. The High Court restrictions should have come much earlier for a healthy environment. Breathing in fresh air is everybody’s right. In the name of traditions and festivals, we cannot commit blunders. Festivals should be celebrated by bringing smiles to the faces of others, not by bringing diseases. — Pardeep Singh Bhamra

Public nature adverse

The orders of the High Court restricting the bursting and sale of firecrackers will not dampen the spirit and festivities of Diwali. The traders who have already purchased and piled up crackers will not like to suffer losses. They will plan to sell them using all right and wrong means. Also the general public, in accordance with its nature, will buy the fireworks covertly. Public generally defies government or court rulings, as seen in the case of stubble burning ban. The authorities concerned do not have the wherewithal and the courage to implement such orders. — Dr G Dev