Jamshedpur: The city is all set for a safe Diwali this year. Traditionally, Diwali is marked by lighting earthen lamps, decorating homes, and exchanging sweets and gifts with friends and family.
However, in recent years, the festival has also been associated with high noise and air pollution due to the increasing use of firecrackers, prompting a shift toward a safer and more eco-friendly celebration across Jamshedpur.
Over the past few years, awareness campaigns have been launched across the city to encourage citizens to celebrate Diwali responsibly.
This year too, the district administration, corporate houses, educational institutions, and social organisations have come together to ensure that the festival of lights passes off peacefully, safely, and in an environmentally conscious manner.
The district administration has chalked out a comprehensive safety plan for the festive period. The health department has been instructed to remain on high alert, especially to handle any fire-related accidents.
“We have asked all hospitals, both private and government-run, to keep their emergency wings ready for burn victims and ensure adequate stock of medicines and ointments. Ambulances will remain stationed round the clock at Sadar Hospital (Khasmahal) and MGM Medical College and Hospital (Sakchi),” said an official.
Police officials too have been directed to strengthen vigil across the city. “All police stations have been asked to intensify patrolling, especially during the evening and night hours on October 20 and 21, to prevent any untoward incident, particularly in communally sensitive areas. Around 25 magistrates will be deployed across different police stations to monitor law and order during the celebrations,” informed a senior official of the district administration.
Fire brigades have been instructed to remain on standby to respond swiftly in case of fire mishaps. Local authorities have also issued appeals to citizens to refrain from bursting high-decibel crackers and to avoid using them near hospitals, old-age homes, and animal shelters.
The administration has also emphasized the importance of using only certified “green crackers” as permitted by the Pollution Control Board to keep the air clean and breathable.
Corporate houses in Jamshedpur are also playing their part in promoting a safe Diwali. Many have launched awareness campaigns and issued colourful posters listing safety dos and don’ts.
Similar efforts are being seen in other special schools and centres across the city, where children are engaged in making eco-friendly Diwali decorations. Their works not only brighten homes but also spread a powerful message of inclusion, creativity, and self-reliance.
Shopkeepers, meanwhile, are witnessing brisk sales of diyas, candles, and decorative items ahead of the festival. Markets like Bistupur, Sakchi, and Kadma are buzzing with customers, though many are consciously choosing environment-friendly products.
Local vendors of earthen lamps are reporting good business this year as people turn to traditional ways of celebration.
