Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray in his address to the state on Sunday appealed people to celebrate a simple Diwali at home and asked people to not burst crackers.

He said, “Many festivals such as Ganesh Festival, Dahi Handi, Eid, Navratri were celebrated in low-grandeur. Diwali is just around the corner and markets are open from the last few days. The state is resuming its activities but still, there is a risk of COVID-19.”

Ahead of Diwali, Chief Minister appealed to celebrate the festival without firecrackers. He said, “Diwali is a festival of lights, one must celebrate the festival with a great spirit. Diwali will be celebrated under the shadow of the pandemic. The state can ban the sale of firecrackers but with the collective spirit, we together can decide not bursting them. Bursting firecrackers at public places are banned thus one can celebrate Diwali without harming anybody.”

Commenting about the second wave of COVID-19 in the world CM Thackeray said, “Many countries in Europe are in the lockdown with the second wave of COVID-19 has made its impact. I am not terrifying but I want everybody to be alert. Coming six months, all norms related to COVID-19 must be strictly followed. If the second wave hits us, the lockdown will create havoc in the state.”

“A strict action will be taken against those who venture without masks. In Mumbai and other cities, people are seen travelling without a mask. We do not have COVID-19 vaccine yet. One must wash their hands, use masks and sanitise hands at regular intervals,” he added.

He informed, “Cinema halls, theatres, gyms, local trains for women, restaurants are allowed to recommence their business. Local trains for all will be allowed soon as the talks about the same are going with Railway Minister Piyush Goyal.”

WHEN TEMPLES WILL BE REOPENED

CM Uddhav Thackeray on reopening of temples said, “Post Diwali, the state government will prepare an advisory on the opening of temples. Senior citizens regularly visit religious places and the risk of getting transmitted is more here. Thus, even if someone is visiting religious places, one must compulsorily wear the mask.”