Drought in Maharashtra routs Holi parties

PUNE: Looks like this year’s Holi isn’t going to be much of a party — in the backdrop of the devastating drought sweeping the state, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken the decision to keep a watch on celebrations this year that are likely to be organised by resorts and water parks, to celebrate the festival of colours. Although authorities have not yet decided to put an official stop to such events, they are saying they will definitely be appealing to establishments and individuals to exercise restraint during Holi celebrations.
Political parties and social organisations have been approaching the district administration over the last two days, demanding that they prevent organisers from hosting Holi parties, where they insist a large scale wastage of water is likely to take place.
Last week, workers of the Congress-affiliated National Students Union of India (NSUI) busted a pool party at the O Hotel in Koregaon Park, staging a sit-down protest till partygoers were left frustrated. Following this, more political and social outfits have picked up the water wastage issue, and conveyed their concerns to the district administration. To organise a party, event organisers are required to take the permission of the Entertainment Tax department.
District Entertainment Tax officer Gitanjali Shirke told Mirror, “We have received a memorandum from the NSUI about granting permission for Holi parties. We have also received around three or four applications for Holi parties this time from establishments around the city. Both have been presented to senior district authorities — their decision on the matter is awaited.”