Dussehra, a significant Hindu festival, is celebrated across India and the tradition has been continuing in our Sector too every year by burning effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarn and this was also done this year on Sat Oct. 12th.
However, there is a dark side to it as the age-old tradition is raising environmental concerns due to noise and air pollution generated from burning. While one section of residents wants to continue this tradition forever so that our next generation becomes familiar with it, this is causing more harm than increasing our knowledge. Our children are in fact frightened by the loud sounds and this has adverse effects on human health, especially among children and the elderly. Similarly affected are our animals like cats and dogs which are in good numbers in the Sector. Anupma Bhadrwaj (SDF) informed me that her dog was traumatized for 2 days after the loud sounds.
So we really need to ask ourselves whose entertainment we are continuing with this year after year, despite the fact that many residents have given good suggestions about alternate celebrations like having a green Dusserha, a dance-drama, a laser show or anything else symbolic so that we do not lose touch with tradition by adopting eco-friendly and more sustainable celebrations.
The Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas has already issued implementation of GRAP orders till further notice on 14 Oct.
We also welcome the RWA message to residents on Oct 16, requesting them to take a pledge against bursting of fire-crackers. I only wish this was done before the Dussehra event!
Every year it is the same scenario, and we need to take action/steps in time to ensure good air quality for everyone.
Let’s hope that in the coming years Dussehra will be celebrated in our Sector in its true spirit of Good over Evil, which in the current circumstances means having an environment-friendly celebration!
