As Puneites get ready to enjoy the festival of lights for the next two days, people employed with the emergency and essential services have to celebrate the festival away from their family.
As Puneites get ready to enjoy the festival of lights for the next two days, people employed with the emergency and essential services have to celebrate the festival away from their family. Along with the cops, the staff at the fire brigade department and hospitals are on duty to ensure a smooth festival for the vast majority.
Petrol pump employee Chandrakant Rajoon said, “We work in a private company. Hence, getting leave for festivals is out of question, and secondly, if people are celebrating, we cannot shut down pumps and sit at home.’’
It has been three years since Rajoon has not had the privilege of celebrating Diwali with his family. However, other than a stoic shrug, he has nothing much to say regarding his predicament.
Along with petrol pumps, employees of the hospitality industry also have to forego of their festivities. Hotel manager Gopal Shetty said their establishment does close down for some time for the Laxmi pooja, but otherwise, the hotel will be open.
Diwali for vehicle mechanic Ashish Jawle is a time for brisk business rather than leisure and celebration. “Vehicles break down anytime and we cannot shut down the garage for days together. We will close early on festive days.’’
While society at large is busy celebrating the festival, it is the duty of the cops to ensure that the festival passes off peacefully.
Assistant police inspector Sanjay Patange of traffic branch said, “Someone has to take the responsibility when most people are on leave and our department cannot stop working. Some of our colleagues have gone on leave but many are working and to be available in case there is a problem.’’
Along with the cops, employees of the fire brigade are on duty during the festive season. Kiran Gawade, fire officer of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation said that the department will function 24x7 with some staff.
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