Karnataka Joins List of States That Have Banned Firecrackers Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Bangalore:
Karnataka has joined a growing list of states that have banned firecrackers amid the coronavirus pandemic just days before Diwali. Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said he decided to ban firecrackers in the context of the coronavirus pandemic.
Poor air quality can have a huge impact on health as the COVID-19 virus often affects the functioning of the lungs. Experts widely believe that poor air quality puts people with comorbidities at higher risk. The virus is known to affect the respiratory system.
“We discussed this and we are making the decision to ban fireworks from this Deepavali. An order has been discussed and is being issued. This is due to COVID-19,” Mr. Yediyurappa told reporters today.
The BJP-ruled state in the south banned firecrackers less than a week after Odisha, Delhi and Rajasthan also banned them, citing concerns over winter air quality and the coronavirus pandemic as well.
Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar had said on Thursday that firecrackers can harm people infected with the coronavirus, and called on residents to avoid setting them off this Diwali.
Karnataka reported more than 3,100 coronavirus cases and 31 deaths on Thursday, bringing the total infections to more than 8.38 lakh.
Haryana has partially banned firecrackers: it has made the possession and sale of imported fireworks illegal.
Maharashtra has asked people to avoid setting off firecrackers on this Diwali, although it has not prohibited them. He asked people to think about those who tested positive for coronavirus, as they could face complications due to air pollution. “… Instead, they can light lamps on a large scale and celebrate the festival,” the Maharashtra Department of the Interior said in a statement on Thursday.
Eighteen states and territories of the Union have been asked to respond on the issue of pollution caused by firecrackers. The National Green Court or NGT has said it is considering a broader order banning the use of firecrackers to protect the health of vulnerable groups.
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