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Delhi's Green Diwali Sparks Animal Welfare Fears Ahead of Festivities

Summary

  • Animal activists and vets worry green crackers may encourage more cracker use
  • Dog bite injuries expected to nearly double around Diwali in Delhi
  • Stray animals suffer trauma from noise and bright flashes of crackers
Delhi's Green Diwali Sparks Animal Welfare Fears Ahead of Festivities

With Diwali just around the corner, Delhi is gearing up to celebrate the festival of lights with "green" crackers. However, animal activists and veterinarians are raising concerns about a potential surge in animal cruelty and distress cases.

In previous years, when firecrackers were completely banned, residents were seen openly defying the order. Now, with the government's decision to allow the sale of green variants, animal welfare groups worry more people may start bursting crackers, potentially worsening the situation for animals.

Animal shelters across the capital have already begun preparing for a busier week, as veterinarians expect dog bite injuries to almost double around Diwali. "Stray dogs get terrified by the explosions and bright flashes. Many run blindly through the streets, get injured, or lash out in fear," said Dr. Meenakshi, a Delhi-based vet.

While green crackers may emit less smoke, the noise and sudden bursts still leave animals traumatized. Activists emphasize that Diwali can be celebrated without terrifying or hurting other living beings. They have appealed to residents to stay alert and report any injured animals or cruelty cases promptly.

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Green crackers may emit less smoke, but the noise and sudden bursts still leave animals traumatized. Animal activists and vets expect a rise in animal cruelty and injuries, including a near doubling of dog bite cases.
They worry the partial relaxation of the firecracker ban could lead to more people bursting crackers, potentially worsening the distress faced by animals during the festival.
They recommend bursting crackers only in open areas, far from trees or animal shelters, and ensuring any discarded crackers are completely extinguished to prevent harm to grazing animals.

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