Delhi to Light Up Skies with Green Crackers This Diwali Amid Pollution Concerns

Strategic Insights -

Delhi is poised to celebrate Diwali with a unique twist this year, as the Supreme Court has permitted the sale and bursting of CSIR-NEERI-certified green crackers in the Delhi-NCR region. The move aims to balance festive spirit with environmental concerns, but experts warn that even green crackers can pose health hazards, especially for those with respiratory issues. The capital is struggling with severe air pollution, with the latest Central Pollution Control Board data showing an AQI of 296, just shy of the "very poor" category.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Supreme Court has allowed the sale and bursting of CSIR-NEERI-certified green crackers in the Delhi-NCR region from October 18 to 20, with restrictions on time slots.
  • The move aims to reduce pollution during Diwali, but experts warn that even green crackers can pose health hazards, especially for patients with respiratory issues.
  • Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has been in the "poor" category for six consecutive days, with the latest reading at 296.
  • The AQI in neighboring cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) has been even lower, with Ghaziabad recording "very poor" air for three consecutive days.
  • A LocalCircles study found that 34% of families are likely to burn crackers this Diwali, with 40% of them also planning to burn regular crackers.
  • Dr. S Chatterjee, a Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Apollo Hospital, warns that green crackers produce 30% less pollution than traditional crackers, but still pose health hazards.
  • Patrolling teams from multiple agencies will ensure that only NEERI and PESO-approved green firecrackers are lit during the specified days and times.
  • Strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the regulations, with additional beat staff and enforcement teams deployed to monitor activities.

Statistics:

  • Delhi's AQI has been in the "poor" category for six consecutive days, with the latest reading at 296.
  • The 24-hour average AQI in Ghaziabad was 324 ("very poor") on Saturday, 306 on Friday, and 307 on Thursday.
  • A total of 38,000 residents across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad participated in the LocalCircles study.
  • 34% of families are likely to burn crackers this Diwali, with 40% of them also planning to burn regular crackers.

Sources:

  • Hindustan Times
  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
  • LocalCircles
  • Apollo Hospital
  • Supreme Court of India
  • Delhi Police