It is alarming to hear that, in the wake of new year's celebrations across Dhaka, numerous fires were reported in several Dhaka areas, including Lalbagh, Sadarghat, and Adabor.
While it is a relief that the fires were put out, nevertheless, the reckless nature of our celebrations could have caused far more damage; there were reports of a power outage caused by a sky lantern in Adabor, Mohammadpur, and there was potential for more accidents.
While Fire Service chief Brigadier General Md Main Uddin had previously requested the residents of Dhaka not to use lanterns to avert fires, and DMP Commissioner Khandker Golam Faruq also urged all to refrain from using any kind of fireworks, firecrackers, or sky lanterns, it is unfortunate that their advice fell on deaf ears.
While citizens of Dhaka deserve to celebrate the coming of the new year, it cannot be at the expense of public safety and welfare.
Beyond the safety hazards that can arise, Dhaka's already toxic air which approaches hazardous levels during the winter months only exacerbates with the sheer number of firecrackers that are lit. Moreover, noise from firecrackers throughout the night are a nuisance for those sensitive to loud noises.
Overall, it displays a lack of regard and responsibility that cannot be defining characteristics of our people. To that end, we hope that moving forward, people are more responsible in their celebrations, keeping in mind the impact their actions will have on others' safety and well-being.
