State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, Centre for Environmental Studies and SwitchON Foundation Unite for Smoke Free Diwali and to Say No To Firecrackers for a Greener and Healthier Festival of Lights
Bhubaneswar 11 Nov, 2023 : In an effort to promote a more eco-friendly and healthier way to celebrate Diwali, and to abide by the Supreme Court’s directives against the use of conventional firecrackers across the country and allow only green crackers with reduced emission and decibel levels, SwitchON Foundation in collaboration with State Pollution Control Board, Odisha and Centre for Environmental Studies, Forest and Environment Department, Govt. of Odisha held a statewide public awareness campaign titled ‘Smoke Free Diwali’ urging and appealing citizens to say no to firecrackers. The initiative aims at raising public sensitivity towards the pollution caused by bursting crackers and illustrates how the effect is not just immediate, but long term.
As part of the initiative, several schools, colleges and organizations came together to take part in various activities for celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali. Several schools and colleges of Odisha from Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, Angul, Anandpur, Rourkela, Bhawanipatna, Daspalla, Kendrapara, Keonjhar, Nayagarh, Rayagada, Sonepur, Baligaon and many other cities enthusiastically participated in the Smoke Free Diwali. One of the highlights of the Smoke Free Diwali campaign was the Online Pledge to say no to firecrackers. Approximately 1000 concerned children and youth pledged online to say no to firecrackers. The collective commitment to reduce air pollution and protect our environment was an inspiring testament to the power of unity.
Dr. K. Murugesan, IFS, Member Secretary, SPCB, Odisha said, “We are glad to collaborate with SwitchON Foundation for smoke-free Diwali, illuminating the spirit of joy without compromising the air we breathe. Say no to firecrackers, and let the festival sparkle with the brilliance of celebration, not the haze of pollution. Together, we can create a brighter and cleaner future for all.”
Other initiatives included a range of competitions that allowed children and youth to express their creativity and support for a smoke-free Diwali. Several schools, colleges and NGOs across the state participated in the smoke free diwali campaign. From stunning Rangoli designs to intricately painted diyas, heartfelt poems, and powerful posters conveying the message of an eco-friendly festival, participants showcased their talents and commitment to a greener future. In an effort to promote creativity, environmental consciousness, and cultural celebration, several Origami Workshops for children were organized along with the Centre for Environmental Studies. This engaging event encouraged children to explore the art of origami while emphasizing the importance of reusing resources for Diwali decorations.
Mr. Pravat Mohan Dash, Programme officer, Centre for Environmental Studies and State Nodal Officer, National Green Corps said, “We are glad to work along with SwitchON Foundation for celebrating green Diwali this year. The schools have enthusiastically participated in the noble campaign to say no to fire crackers and celebrate this diwali in an eco-friendly way.”
Vinay Jaju, MD SwitchON Foundation said “ Really glad to be part of this initiative along with the SPCB, Odisha. On this occasion of the festival of lights I appeal to everyone to enjoy the festival safely and understand the importance of a green clean Diwali.”
Toto miking was used to spread awareness amongst the citizens about the harmful effects of fireworks, motivating people to choose a cleaner and safer way to celebrate the festival. Cycle groups also took to the streets with their lighted cycle under a theme ‘Cycle with Lights’ in order to draw attention to the threat of air pollution while encouraging citizens to celebrate a pollution-free and safe festive season.
Mr. Akhaya Kumar Sarangi, Principal, Khan Nagar High School, Cuttack said, “Observing our students embrace a smoke-free Diwali is a remarkable reflection of their dedication to a healthier, environmentally conscious future. We extend our sincere congratulations to SwitchON for their pivotal role in championing these initiatives, which serve as a profound inspiration for our youth to adopt more environmentally responsible traditions.”
Ms. Sangram Keshari Routray, Vice Chairman, Ashayen NGO said, “We are thrilled to be a part of the Smoke Free Diwali Campaign by creating mass awareness amongst citizens to say no to fire crackers and celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner.”
Earlier the Supreme Court had directed that no fireworks other than the green ones bearing QR codes would be sold in Bengal. The green crackers can be burnt only between 8pm and 10pm on Kali Puja and Diwali night. Odisha Police has also decided to slap the Explosive Substances Act on anyone found with banned firecrackers, be it sellers, transporters or customers, failure to which can lead to three years imprisonment.
Media Dossier
Contact: Vinay Jaju | M: +91 9331178105 | Email: VJ@SwitchON.org.in
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