Delhi Diwali 2023: Crackers Defy Ban Amid ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality
Delhiites celebrated Diwali with fireworks and crackers, ignoring warnings about the city’s worsening air quality. Despite a government ban on firecrackers, celebrations were widespread, raising fears of severe pollution in the coming days.
Diwali Festivities Clash with Pollution Alerts
Families gathered for Lakshmi Puja, exchanged sweets, and decorated homes with diyas—but firecracker bursts drowned out calls for a “green Diwali.” From South Delhi’s upscale colonies to Old Delhi’s markets, illegal cracker sales thrived, and enforcement efforts fell short.
“Diwali is incomplete without crackers,” said Rakesh Sharma, a Lajpat Nagar resident, as his children lit sparklers.
The Delhi government’s “Diya Jalao, Patakhe Nahin” (Light Lamps, Not Crackers) campaign had little effect, with markets like Sadar Bazaar selling banned firecrackers openly.
Delhi AQI Plummets Post-Diwali
Even before Diwali, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was ‘very poor’ (300-400). Post-celebrations, areas like Anand Vihar and RK Puram saw PM2.5 levels exceed 500—hazardous for health. Experts warn pollutants could linger due to low wind speeds.
“Firecrackers release toxic metals like barium, worsening respiratory conditions,” said Dr. Sachchida Nand Tripathi, IIT Kanpur.
Authorities Struggle to Enforce Crackdown
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated GRAP Stage III, restricting construction and diesel generators. Police raids on illegal cracker sales had limited impact. The Supreme Court’s 2021 ban on toxic firecrackers was largely ignored, with many claiming unawareness.
Health Crisis Feared as Hospitals Brace for Surge
Hospitals report rising cases of asthma and COPD. Dr. Neeraj Gupta (Safdarjung Hospital) warned, “Post-Diwali, air toxicity could harm children and the elderly.” The government advised masks and limited outdoor activity.
Public Divide: Tradition vs. Health
While some supported the cracker ban, others blamed stubble burning and industrial emissions. “Why target Diwali alone?” asked Mayur Vihar resident Priya Malhotra.
What’s Next for Delhi’s Pollution Crisis?
With smog persisting, stricter GRAP measures may follow. As Delhi faces another polluted winter, the debate continues: Can tradition and clean air coexist?
Conclusion
Diwali 2023 highlighted Delhi’s struggle between festivity and sustainability. With pollution at hazardous levels, urgent action is needed to prevent a health disaster.
For real-time AQI updates, follow Hindustan Times.
