Delhi imposes firecracker ban to tackle pollution | Fusion - WeRIndia

To combat the rising air pollution in winter, the Delhi government has announced a complete ban on firecrackers until January 1, 2025.

Environment Minister Gopal Rai revealed this decision during a press conference.

He stated that the ban covers the production, storage, sale, and use of all firecrackers, including green ones.

The move aims to reduce pollution, which typically worsens during winter, especially with the added emissions from firecrackers.

The government has taken this step under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and a formal notification is expected soon.

This ban is not a new measure, as Delhi has implemented similar restrictions since 2020.

However, enforcement remains challenging, with widespread violations often observed during Diwali.

The ban, meant to curb pollution, is frequently flouted, leading to severe pollution levels that engulf the city in thick smog for days.

Delhi’s pollution crisis each winter is further aggravated by farm fires in neighbouring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Farmers burn crop residue, creating a smog blanket that covers much of northern India.

The timing coincides with Diwali, leading to an alarming rise in pollution levels, with the AQI often soaring to severe levels above 400.

To address the enforcement issue, Rai announced a joint action plan involving the Delhi Police, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and the state Revenue Department.

The goal is to ensure strict compliance with the ban and prevent confusion among residents regarding its scope.

Although some traders may face losses, the government aims to avoid last-minute decisions, which could cause more disruption.

Rai emphasized the importance of public responsibility, urging Delhiites to celebrate Diwali with diyas and sweets while reducing pollution.

Opposition leaders have criticized the decision, arguing that green firecrackers should be allowed.

However, the Delhi government’s position remains firm, hoping that citizens will prioritize health over tradition.

Image Credit: Prami.ap90, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Delhi_air_pollution_2019.jpg