Maharashtra government releases guidelines for Diwali celebrations

With Diwali just a few days away, preparations are in full swing. While this year, the celebrations will be different due to the coronavirus crisis and restrictions, the Maharashtra government has announced guidelines in wake of the festivities.

As per the Home Department of the Maharashtra government, as the temples have not been opened yet, people are advised to worship at their homes. They are also advised to celebrate the festival with simplicity and not rush to public places. Masks and sanitisers have to be used by people who step outside of their homes.

The government has also appealed not to burst firecrackers as they damage the environment and increase air pollution. Being the festival of lights, the government has asked people to light earthen lamps instead of firecrackers to save the environment.

In wake of the COVID-19 crisis, no public programs are allowed to be organised. The government has urged people to participate in the programs online.

The government has asked people to organise blood donation and cleanliness campaigns instead of cultural programs on Diwali.

In the guidelines, the government has stressed that the COVID-19 guidelines must be followed strictly.

This comes as the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday announced that it will ban bursting all fire-crackers at public places during Diwali celebrations.

Any violators shall be penalized and the SOPs in this regard would be issued shortly, Additional Municipal Commissioner Suresh Kakani said.