Delhi’s ‘Green’ Diwali Goes Up in Smoke as Air Quality Turns Severe

Delhi’s much-publicized ‘green’ Diwali initiative failed miserably as the city’s air quality plunged to ‘severe’ levels within hours of the festival. Despite warnings from authorities, firecracker bans were widely ignored, turning Delhi into a toxic gas chamber yet again. By midnight, the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 500 in multiple areas, with PM2.5 levels reaching 20 times the WHO’s safety threshold.

The Broken Promise of a ‘Green’ Diwali

In the weeks before Diwali, the Delhi government, courts, and central agencies imposed strict bans on conventional firecrackers, allowing only low-emission ‘green’ alternatives. Awareness campaigns urged eco-friendly celebrations, but by nightfall on November 12, illegal fireworks lit up the sky, and social media exploded with videos of violations.

“The enforcement was nonexistent,” said environmentalist Vimlendu Jha. “Banned crackers were sold openly, and authorities ignored it.” Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed pollution levels surged between 8 PM and 2 AM, with Anand Vihar hitting an AQI of 999—the highest measurable limit.

Why Delhi’s Firecracker Ban Failed

Experts highlight three major failures:
1. Political Blame Game – Delhi and central governments clashed instead of cooperating.
2. Lax Enforcement – Despite 3,000 police teams, illegal sales thrived in markets.
3. Public Resistance – Many residents defied bans, calling fireworks essential for Diwali.

“The ban was only on paper,” admitted a Sadar Bazaar shopkeeper. “People wanted traditional crackers, not ‘green’ ones.”

Health Crisis Deepens as Smog Chokes Delhi

By morning, a thick haze engulfed the city. Hospitals saw a 30% spike in respiratory cases, with doctors comparing breathing Delhi’s air to smoking 20 cigarettes daily. Dr. Arvind Kumar warned of lasting lung damage, especially for children and seniors.

Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana could worsen the crisis, contributing 35% of Delhi’s pollution. With falling temperatures and stagnant winds, toxic air may linger for days.

What’s the Solution?

This Diwali proved that policies alone won’t fix pollution. Key steps needed:
– Strict penalties for firecracker violators.
– Grassroots awareness on eco-friendly celebrations.
– Year-round anti-pollution measures (industrial controls, dust suppression).

As Delhi faces another hazardous winter, the real question is: Will next Diwali be any different?

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