Diwali celebrated with traditional fervour amidst tight security

New Delhi, Oct 21 (UNI) Delhiites celebrated Diwali with traditional pomp and gaiety which passed off peacefully despite looming security threats and warnings from various quarters, even as traders observed a 'black day' today to protest the sealing drive in the Capital.

People illuminated their homes with lights and traditional 'diyas', reducing their dependence on crackers to celebrate the festival, thanks to growing awareness on environmental safety.

Police said the day was more or less free of any 'incident' that would affect peace and tranquility in the city.

''It was nearly an incident-free Diwali, where alertness was key to maintaining calm and peace,'' said a police official.

A thorough vigil on all fronts and sensitising the rank and file on the need for maintaining a high degree of alert did make a difference, he said adding people's awareness and traders cooperation contributed a lot to the overall situation.

The Fire Brigade said no major fire incident was reported to it until 2000 hrs, though 50-odd calls were made of minor incidents.

''No big or serious incident has been reported till 2000 hrs.

Among the calls received no reports of any casualty or injuries has been made so far,'' said an official at the Fire Brigade.

Markets continued to be flooded with buyers and heavy rush reported from nearly all prominent markets of the capital.

Shopkeepers talked of brisk and encouraging sales, though 'shift' in purchases remained one of their prime concerns.

''With imported fruits, confectionary and other decorative items hitting the market, sale of traditional items have taken a beat. But we managed good sales as we sensed changing tastes and switched to a variety of goods,'' said a Karol Bagh shopowner.

Sweetmeat and gift item shops continued to pull the most crowds with children and youngsters forming the major chunk of those making purchases.

After 'official' and 'relatives' gifting, a new trend of friends exchanging gifts was another reason for sales registering a high pitch, said a trade analyst. ''Youngsters, with disposable income and more pocket money, are the new 'sales chasers'. And fancy items as gifts made for good business.'' MORE UNI AN MIR KP2143