Mangaluru: Preparations begin for Deepawali festivities!

Mangaluru: Preparations for Deepawali, the festival of lights, have kicked off across the coastal region. While lighting oil lamps (diyas) is a key tradition during the festival, the excitement of bursting fireworks is another major attraction. People are eager to light up the skies with fireworks, and preparations for this have already begun.

Due to the sensitivity and safety concerns associated with fireworks, they cannot be sold indiscriminately at all shops. As a result, the municipal corporation has designated specific areas in the city where the sale of fireworks is permitted. The Nehru Maidan has been identified as a prime location, with plans to set up a large number of stalls. Temporary retail stalls for fireworks will be allowed in these designated areas during Diwali and Tulsi Pooja.

89 stalls in 13 locations

In the first zone of the city, the municipality has allocated space for 15 stalls at locations including Krishnapura Paradise Ground, the open space in front of the APMC building, and the Adarsha Yuvaka Mandala Mahila Samithi Ganeshpura Kaikamba. In the second zone, there are eight locations where 89 stalls will be set up. These include Kadri Cricket Ground, Padavu High School Ground, Bondel Cricket Ground, Pachhanadi Ground, Nehru Maidan, Attavara Nayak Ground, Emmekere Ground, and Urwa Cricket Ground.

In the third zone, Pumpwell Bus Stand and Shaktinagar Ground have been designated, where 10 vendors will be allowed to sell fireworks.

Safety precautions

Though fireworks bring joy and excitement, it is essential to take precautions while using them. Many accidents have occurred in the past, making it crucial to be vigilant. Children should be kept at a safe distance while bursting fireworks, and no one should hold fireworks in their hands while lighting them. People with asthma, allergies, or other health issues should stay away from fireworks. Vehicles should be parked at a safe distance from where fireworks are being set off. It is advisable for children to use low-noise fireworks under the supervision of adults to ensure both environmental and health safety.