Kerala: Experts urge safer technology for Thrissur Pooram fireworks
Former PESO official R Venugopal suggests replacing traditional fireworks with robotics and mechanisation to improve safety during temple festivals.
Former joint chief controller of the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) R Venugopal has urged Kerala devaswom authorities to replace traditional fireworks with safer, technology-driven alternatives. Speaking at a seminar organised by the Thrissur district scientific awareness committee of the Kerala Sastra Sahithya Parishad, Venugopal suggested exploring modern aerial visual spectacles similar to those used in other countries.
According to Urban Acres, Venugopal referred to advanced technologies, including mechanisation and robotics, as possible components for safer public celebrations. The suggestion follows an explosion at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Mundathikode in April, ahead of the latest Thrissur Pooram.
The April incident was investigated by the Justice Ramachandran Nair Commission. While the commission's report does not provide specific details of its findings, Venugopal's observations follow the investigation.
Devaswoms, which administer temples and organise festival activities, would need to evaluate how alternative displays could be adopted while preserving the ceremonial character of events like Thrissur Pooram.
The proposal involves managing technology, approvals, and operating procedures for organisers, licensed manufacturers, and spectators. No decision by a specific devaswom or a timeline for adopting these technologies has been cited.