Temple tragedy: time to spread awareness

My heart goes out to the victims of the tragic incident at Paravoor temple in Kerala. The number of deaths must serve as an eye opener to bring in stringent regulations on the handling of pyrotechnics at festivals, especially in Hindu temples where they are used as part of tradition. This is not the first time such accidents have occurred, yet the organisers continue to ignore or flout the law, expecting immunity as they are religious festivals. Recent incidents at temple festivals also involved elephants charging into the crowd during ceremonies, resulting in people getting injured. The state of Kerala has yet to learn the importance of implementing safety measures, whether people are at work, home or in public areas. For instance, on many construction sites, the labourers are not provided with personal protective equipment such as hard hats, gloves or safety shoes. The culture of safety is still an alien concept for many.

The Kolkata tragedy where many died when the huge flyover bridge collapsed has not yet addressed the safety practices that need to be implemented at work sites. The lack of infrastructure apart, driving on Indian roads is considered as a feat since regulations like wearing seat belts and use of hazard lights are just put on paper, but never actually followed.

Regulatory requirements on safety have hardly percolated down to the people in India, perhaps with the exception of metro cities. However, it is paradoxical that whenever an accident occurs, be it a fire, flooding or other natural calamities — the first help comes from the people around, beating those in rescue missions. Often such practices have proved to be fatal. Considering that, it is high time that the government of India launches campaigns to educate and create awareness about safety measures and practices.

Fireworks are a cottage industry in India, and their transportation never meets safety regulations. In addition, law enforcement agencies often turn a blind eye to those who are engaged in the pyrotechnics business, which only adds to the issue. What is needed in India is a change in culture and educating people on safety.

— The reader is an Indian business development coordinator, based in Dubai.