Delhi to have first of its kind 'Community Diwali'

To dissuade people from bursting crackers, the Delhi government will organise a mega first of its kind Diwali laser show as part of its community Diwali celebrations between October 26 and 29 at Connaught Place, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

Addressing the media along with deputy Manish Sisodia, Kejriwal appealed to the people of Delhi to celebrate a cracker-free and pollution-free Diwali this year.

"The Delhi government will celebrate a grand Diwali festival in Connaught Place. I heartily invite all the people of Delhi to come and celebrate a pollution-free and cracker-free Diwali with us. The Delhi government has scheduled a four-day laser show everyday between October 26 and 29, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m." said the Chief Minister.

Kejriwal said that there are no entry passes required for the event, all the people of Delhi can have free access to the laser show event.

"The whole of Connaught Place will be decorated with laser lights. The laser shows will happen after every one hour, with various art and cultural programmes alongside the laser show. There will be food courts and markets where people can come and enjoy with their families."

Kejriwal said he feels elated to be announcing the laser show event, as "the people of Delhi are like family to me".

He also said that laser shows will be organized at multiple locations next year, if the laser show is successful this year.

"The government will organize the event at various locations and on a larger scale next year."

Kejriwal said on October 26, the Lieutenant Governor will inaugurate the show.

The Chief Minister said there are no restrictions levied on the traders and businessmen. Instead, trade will be doubled because people will be visiting Connaught Place in large numbers.

"Restrictions have been levied only on private cars because they can cause congestion on the roads."

Sisodia said the Delhi government has made several arrangements for the convenience of the people.

On the issue of restrictions levied on private transportation, Sisodia said, "We have arranged for special parking facilities at nearby locations such as Shivaji Stadium, etc. Electric vehicles will also be deployed to transit people from one location to another. The Delhi government has made all the necessary arrangements in this regard."

He appealed to the people of Delhi to celebrate the first of its kind community Diwali in the country.

"We all have been witnessing reports of high pollution levels since the last 10-15 years during the Diwali festival. And so to avoid this unpleasant situation, we want to celebrate a cracker-free and pollution-free Diwali this year. I want to appeal to the people of Delhi to be a part of the community laser Diwali this year."

Lt. Governor Anil Baijal had also praised the effort.

On October 11, he said, "It's an excellent attempt to promote community level celebrations for Diwali with mega laser show/electronic displays to discourage use of crackers. It's a welcome step to combat air pollution in the city."IANS