Will Odisha Burst Crackers? Why It Is Bad During COVID-19

Bhubaneswar: Several experts have warned against the bursting of firecrackers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Directorate of Medical Education & Training (DMET) director CBK Mohanty on Friday cautioned that nitrogen dioxide released by firecrackers helps in spreading COVID-19. “Studies have shown that Nitrogen Dioxide released from firecrackers helps in the growth of Coronavirus. Hence, COVID-19 infections may rise due to the bursting of firecrackers,” Mohanty said.

Doctors have also warned that smoke from firecrackers could harm those who have recovered from COVID-19 during the second wave, especially those with long COVID, upper respiratory infections and bronchitis.

The Odisha government on September 30 had ordered a complete ban on sale and use of firecrackers in the state.

The Orissa High Court on Friday asked the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) to take a decision on the sale and use of green crackers in the state.

The HC asked the SRC to decide on the issue by considering the directives of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) as well as guidelines issued by the Odisha government to check the spread of COVID-19.

Read Also: Green Diwali: Orissa HC Leaves The Decision On SRC; Next Hearing On Nov 1

The Maharashtra government too has urged people to avoid crackers as smoke and particulate matter would create problems for COVID-19 patients.

Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, the West Bengal government has also ordered a complete ban on the sale and bursting of all kinds of crackers, except green crackers, during Diwali and Kali Puja, citing the severe impact it will have on patients.