Citizens Unite to Say No To Firecrackers and take pledge for a Greener and Healthier Festival of Lights

Kolkata 11 Nov, 2023 : In an effort to promote a more eco-friendly and healthier way to celebrate Diwali, and to abide by the Supreme Court’s directives against the use of conventional firecrackers across the country and allow only green crackers with reduced emission and decibel levels, SwitchON Foundation held a statewide public awareness campaign titled ‘Smoke Free Diwali’ urging and appealing citizens to say no to firecrackers. The initiative aims at raising public sensitivity towards the pollution caused by bursting crackers and illustrates how the effect is not just immediate, but long term.

In a remarkable demonstration of commitment to the cause of a Smoke Free Diwali, Mr. Vinay Jaju, Managing director of SwitchON Foundation embarked on a cycle ride covering the distance from Kolkata to Bardhaman. This initiative was not merely a physical journey but a symbolic gesture to disseminate the crucial message of celebrating Diwali without compromising air quality. Mr. Jaju’s cycling expedition served as a powerful catalyst, inspiring communities along the route to embrace the ethos of a cleaner and greener festival.

As part of the initiative, several schools, colleges, housing associations and organizations came together to take part in various activities for celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali. Several schools of West Bengal from Kolkata, Bardhaman, Howrah, Naihati, Durgapur and many other cities enthusiastically participated in the Smoke Free Diwali. Some of the schools of Kolkata include Baidyapara High School, Bridge International School, DPS, Ruby park, Calcutta international School etc.  One of the highlights of the Smoke Free Diwali campaign was the Online Pledge to say no to firecrackers. Approximately 1000 concerned citizens gathered online to take a solemn pledge to say no to firecrackers. The collective commitment to reduce air pollution and protect our environment was an inspiring testament to the power of unity.

Vinay Jaju, MD SwitchON Foundation said “ I am cycling approximately 300 kms in over Saturday and Sunday meeting multiple communities, housing complexes, children and youth and encouraging them not to burst firecrackers towards clean air and there are many ways to have fun on a festive period than burst firecrackers. On this occasion of the festival of lights I appeal to everyone to enjoy the festival safely and understand the importance of a green clean Diwali.”

Other initiatives included a range of competitions that allowed children and youth to express their creativity and support for a smoke-free Diwali. Several schools and colleges across the state participated in the smoke free diwali campaign. From stunning Rangoli designs to intricately painted diyas, heartfelt poems, and powerful posters conveying the message of an eco-friendly festival, participants showcased their talents and commitment to a greener future.

Cycle groups took to the streets with their lighted cycle under a theme ‘Cycle with Lights’ in order to draw attention to the threat of air pollution while encouraging citizens to celebrate a pollution-free and safe festive season. Around 3000 Cyclists participated in the cycle with lights initiative and encouraged citizens not to burst firecrackers. The cyclists covered areas like Baghbazar to Victoria main Gate, Patuli to Victoria main gate and many other prominent locations to spread the message of no firecrackers. While Toto mikeing was used to spread awareness in parts of Howrah Maidan, Jadavpur Stadium, Naihati Railway Station, Pancharul Bus stand Howrah and many other places.

A Cyclist who took part in the event said : “We don’t need fire crackers to have fun during Diwali. There are more sustainable ways of having fun. Festivals and spirituality should bring us closer to nature and not harm them.”

A Resident who joined the campaign said: “In the light of Diwali, may our hearts be filled with good wishes for all. Let our society become aware of noise and air pollution”.

Ms. Sarita Jaiswal, Principal, GPS Memorial School, Howrah said, “Observing our students embrace a smoke-free Diwali is a remarkable reflection of their dedication to a healthier, environmentally conscious future. We extend our sincere congratulations to SwitchON for their pivotal role in championing these initiatives, which serve as a profound inspiration for our youth to adopt more environmentally responsible traditions.”

Ms. Tulika Das, Director, Sanchar NGO said, “We are thrilled to be a part of the Smoke Free Diwali Campaign by creating mass awareness amongst citizens to say no to fire crackers and celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner.”

Earlier the Supreme Court had directed that no fireworks other than the green ones bearing QR codes would be sold in Bengal. The green crackers can be burnt only between 8pm and 10pm on Kali Puja and Diwali night. West Bengal Police has also decided to slap the Explosive Substances Act on anyone found with banned firecrackers, be it sellers, transporters or customers, failure to which can lead to three years imprisonment.

Media Dossier

Contact: Vinay Jaju | M: +91 9331178105 | Email: VJ@SwitchON.org.in