PONDA: While locals appreciate Matoli artists for promoting eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, concerns have been raised over the excessive use of loud firecrackers during the festival, particularly during idol immersions, which contributes to sound and air pollution, and leaves animals distressed.
Environmentalists and locals have stressed the need for greater awareness around the impact of fireworks, urging people to opt for alternatives that cause less harm to the environment. Despite the high cost of fireworks this year, many have turned to cheaper and louder firecracker bombs, which, while affordable, have significantly contributed to noise pollution during the festival.
Firecrackers priced between Rs 750 to Rs 800 per box saw reduced usage, but the cheaper firecracker bombs, sold at Rs 120 to Rs 140 per box of 10, have become a popular alternative, leading to increased sound pollution during the Ganesh immersion rituals.Environmental activist Sandeep Parkar praised Matoli artists for promoting environmental conservation through their decorations but emphasised the need for similar awareness around pollution caused by fireworks. "We need fresh air to breathe, but the smoke from firecrackers leads to health problems and breathing issues," Parkar said. He highlighted the harmful effects of loud firecracker bombs on children's hearing and the potential risks to pregnant women. "Money spent on excessive fireworks could be better used for household necessities," he added, urging people to minimise the use of firecrackers for a healthier and more environmentally-friendly celebration.
Over the past week, numerous cases of pet animals going missing were reported, along with the loud cracker noises scaring stray dogs, causing them to run helter-skelter into traffic.
Nayan Naik of Kavalem also noted the important environmental messages conveyed through Matoli displays but pointed out that the issue of pollution from fireworks remains neglected. "We can see the pollution crisis in cities like Delhi, and we must focus on protecting our green environment and controlling air and sound pollution caused by firecrackers," she said, calling for government-led awareness campaigns.
Vishal Fadte suggested that celebrations should involve fewer firecrackers that emit less sound and smoke, as excessive noise affects health. He stressed the need to avoid loud firecracker bombs to reduce their harmful impact on the community.