Dehradun, Oct. 22 -- Fireworks went off with frenzied enthusiasm during Diwali night in Dehradun. It was the same in most parts of India. It may be noted, however, that this aspect of the celebration was restricted from early evening to around 2 a.m. While people allowed themselves this traditional treat, there was much less 'spillover' in terms of the days running up to Diwali and the day after. Although, a period of using up leftover firecrackers will be seen on the evening after Diwali, the overall restraint displayed is praiseworthy. The reason for this is obviously the discourse that has taken place in the media for several years, now, over the harmful effects of firecracker pollution on human and animal health.
The decision taken by ...