Mumbai, March 1 The Mumbai municipal body has appealed to citizens to celebrate Holi responsibly by adopting eco-friendly practices and avoiding harm to trees.
The Holika Dahan, where a bonfire is lit to celebrate the burning of the demoness, Holika, will be celebrated on Monday evening, followed by 'dhulivandan' or the application of colors, on the next day.
The BMC stated in a release that residents should not cut trees or branches, but instead use dry wood to observe the ritual in a traditional manner.
The BMC also warned against burning chemically treated wood, plastic, rubber, tires, and other hazardous materials, as the fumes generated can be harmful to health and the environment. The BMC urged housing societies and local communities to organize eco-friendly Holika Dahan events.
For Dhulivandan, the BMC advised citizens to avoid wasting water and to use natural and organic colors that are safe for the skin and children.
The civic body also advised against using synthetic colors containing chemicals and heavy metals, adding that dry colors should be preferred to conserve water.
The civic body also urged citizens to prevent noise pollution, particularly near hospitals, residential areas, and other sensitive locations, by keeping sound levels within permissible limits.