As Diwali celebrations are expected to commence on October 22, the Society for Animals in Distress (Said) is concerned about the effect on fireworks on animals. The five-day celebrations will finish on October 26.
The society’s admin and donor manager Sally Tagg said being situated in Midrand, fireworks are a problem that cause immense distress for the horses and other animals on the farm.
As a mitigation plan, Tagg said, “With Diwali this weekend all of our horses are being moved off the property for their own safety. All animals that remain on the property will be inside for their protection. If possible the dogs and cats will be taken home.”
City of Johannesburg’s by-laws on fireworks state, “No person may deal in fireworks unless he or she holds the required fireworks licence in terms of the Explosives Act. No person under age of 16 years must use explosives without adult supervision, fireworks must not be used inside any building, on agricultural holdings, in public places such as schools, old age homes, hospitals, where animals are present, or within 500m of an explosives factory or storage facility, petrol depot or petrol stations.”
Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe urged residents who are not part of the celebrations to read the by-laws on fireworks to avoid infringing the rights of those who will be rejoicing. “I would like to wish all the Hindu residence of my ward and their family a very happy and prosperous Diwali. During your auspicious celebrations, I urge you to be responsible and to understand that there are rules and regulations to abide to when using fireworks,” said Deppe.
She said it was important to read on city’s memorandum on fireworks and municipal by-laws.
Head of the South African Maha Sabha (SAHMS) Ashwin Trikamjee said they would like to educate the public on the rights of all citizens and the need for respect and tolerance during Diwali celebrations.
“Diwali is a time of great joy, peace and blessings. Diwali represents a reaffirmation divinity, hope, and goodwill, and signifies love, tolerance, generosity and goodness – inherent in all human beings. Divine enlightenment dispels the darkness of ignorance,” said Trikamjee.
He said SAHMS supports the responsible use of fireworks and opposed to big-bangs and acknowledges that the Hindu community must comply with local municipal by-laws, in the conduct of their festivities.
Trikamjee concluded that the Hindu community must be mindful of fellow residents and their animals as Diwali was one of the most auspicious and popular of Hindu festivals.
During the festive season, fireworks may only be used on Christmas Eve (from 19:00 to 22:00), Day of Goodwill (from 19:00 to 22:00), New Year’s Eve (from 23:00 to 01:00) and New Year’s Day (from 19:00 to 22:00).
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