​​​​​​​Bhubaneswar, Oct 20: The spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights, has lit up Odisha today as people across the state celebrate with joy, devotion, and vibrant tradition. Homes, streets, and marketplaces are decked out in rows of glowing diyas, colourful rangolis, and festive decorations, creating a spectacular atmosphere in both urban and rural areas.

As families gather to worship Goddess Lakshmi, sweets and gifts are being exchanged in a joyful expression of togetherness. In various cities and towns, elaborately decorated community pandals for Kali Puja have added grandeur to the celebrations.

To accommodate Diwali celebrations, the Odisha government has announced that the Ama Bus Service will operate only till 3 PM today in all cities where it is currently functional. Full services will resume tomorrow.

In a significant move to promote a safe and environment-conscious celebration, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has issued a series of strict guidelines:

• Firecrackers are permitted only between 7 PM and 9 PM.
• Crackers emitting sound levels above 125 decibels are strictly banned.
• Only certified green crackers are allowed, and these must be used in open spaces only.

Additional prohibited zones for fireworks include parks, silence zones and within 100 metres of hospitals, schools, religious places, and courts.

The Board has also taken steps to enhance public safety:

• Children under 10 years old are not allowed to handle high-decibel fireworks
• People are advised to wear cotton clothes and keep water and sand nearby while bursting crackers
• Citizens are urged to avoid re-lighting failed fireworks and to dispose of used crackers responsibly
• Maintaining a safe distance from senior citizens, animals, and sensitive areas is strongly encouraged
• Use of protective goggles is recommended to prevent eye injuries

The Board has cautioned that any violation of the guidelines will result in legal action.
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