Bhubaneswar: Covid infection in the capital city Bhubaneswar, is in the plateau stage and the use of firecrackers during the forthcoming festival of lights, Diwali could increase the infection, said Odisha Health Director Bijay Mohapatra.
The increase and decrease in Covid rate of infection is in the dynamic pressure as currently, the State is in endemic stage, Mohapatra.
The Health Director has also said that as Covid-19 primarily affects the lungs, the bursting of the Diwali firecrackers also affects the lungs which might subsequently increase the infection. He has urged the citizens not to create any situation where the rate of Covid infection might increase and suggested to light diyas to celebrate Diwali.
Although the booster dose is required in such a situation, however, the Technical Committee’s study report in this regard is not out yet.
“The movements of people need to be checked upon strictly because the Covid infection is not rising in the places where citizens are following the Covid protocols,” said Health Director.
Meanwhile, Orissa High Court rejected the petition of the All Odisha Fire Workers Dealers Association to sell and use crackers during Diwali as the association is not officially registered.
The association had reportedly appealed to the Court seeking permission for the sale of green crackers. However, the court has allowed that sellers can appeal individually for the same.
It is pertinent to mention here that earlier in September the State government had issued an order which stated “With a view to protecting the health of general public and to curb the spread of infection, sale and use of firecrackers shall remain prohibited during this festive month.”
Also read: Orissa High Court quashes petition seeking permission to sell crackers during upcoming Diwali
Ms Kalinga AI