Time limit on bursting of crackers doesn't affect sales

MANGALURU: The state government's restriction on firecrackers during Diwali to control air pollution has not made a difference on the sale here. People, who were seen forming a beeline for all major firecracker outlets on Monday, said they will abide by the government's decision, but not compromise on celebrations.
Ganesh, a customer, said Diwali was the only time all relatives gathered at their house and burst crackers. Aware of the rule to burst crackers only between 8 pm and 10 pm, Ganesh said that he and his cousins would make the most of the two hours on all four days.

Raymond D'Cunha, another customer, said that he would abide by the rule. He said he bought sparklers for his grandchildren and would ensure they were fired only during the permitted period. G Muralidhar Pai of Manjunath Fireworks told TOI that restriction on the sale did not reflect on the business. However, the business was down by at least 50% as according to him, cash crunch persisted in the market.

Mohammed Usman, who runs a franchise of Indian Crackers and Fireworks, said that restrictions would not hamper the festivities. He said the business picked up on Monday after the lull till Sunday. Though not satisfactory, the sale was as usual during the season, he said.

Kids create awareness

Children from the Green Warriors brigade visited more than 100 houses in and around Jeppinamogaru and created awareness on the effects of bursting crackers. They also handed residents a couple of diyas as part of the festivity.