CUTTACK: A pollution-free Diwali is yet to become a reality here with youngsters, determined to have a blast, splurging on designer crackers. Concerns for the environment have taken a back seat - State Pollution Control Board had mandated a decibel limit of 125 decibels and the chemical content to be inscribed on the wrappers - as expensive crackers such as the colourful ‘Crackling Peacock’ or the booming ‘Seven Shock’ crackers are flying fast off the racks at the shops.A day before the Festival of Lights, youths made a beeline for the ear-splitting atom bombs and hydrogen bombs at several make-shift kiosks.Activists alleged that even as norms are in place to put a curb on bursting of high-decibel crackers, they are flouted by youngsters even after the 10 pm deadline at places like Bajrakabati, Buxi Bazaar and Haripur. “The crackers explode with a loud bang, emitting toxic chemicals and, of course, a deafening noise, all of which pollute the air,” said an activist.Interestingly, such crackers, using explosive ingredients beyond the permissible limit, were clandestinely sold in the market, with many people procuring them from Padampur.Meanwhile, some manufacturers, taking into account the issue of pollution due to firecrackers, are commercially selling ‘eco-friendly’ and designer crackers. They claimed that these eco-friendly crackers are made of recycled firecrackers and they emit less smoke and noise."Diwali is synonymous with crackers. Keeping that in mind, we stock all kinds of crackers. This year, designer firecrackers are the flavour of the season,” said Amit Dhal, a vendor. He said they had also stocked up on Natya Dhara, a kind of ‘chakri’ that emits colourful lights and sounds while twisting and turning.Hollywood Park at Rs 4,500 for 75 pieces and Parachute Rocket, a packet of 10 pieces costing Rs 500, have emerged the best sellers despite the high prices.Many said customers were not happy with the 30 to 35 per cent jump in prices.
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