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Delhi's air quality consistently deteriorates as winter approaches, a phenomenon exacerbated by the festive season, particularly Diwali. While the spike in pollution levels during Diwali receives widespread attention, it's crucial to understand that the situation is far more complex. The capital's air pollution problem is chronic, steadily worsening year after year due to a multitude of human activities. From vehicular emissions to construction dust and stubble burning in surrounding states, Delhi's declining air quality stems from year-round pollutants, with Diwali firecrackers adding a significant, temporary layer to this persistent smog.
While there's no doubt that firecrackers contribute significantly to the rise in air pollution during Diwali, they represent only a portion of the perennial issue. Delhi's air quality consistently reaches alarming levels long before Diwali due to factors like vehicle emissions, industrial pollutants, construction dust, and waste burning across the National Capital Region (NCR). However, specific seasonal triggers further intensify the pollution problem.
During winter, low wind speeds and the atmospheric phenomenon known as 'temperature inversion' trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the air quality crisis. Additionally, the practice of stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Eastern Pakistan, prevalent during October and November, adds to Delhi's woes, pushing pollution to critical levels.
The tradition of bursting firecrackers during Diwali dates back centuries, deeply rooted in the festivities. While this tradition holds cultural significance, growing awareness of its environmental and health hazards is prompting a shift in perceptions. Firecrackers release harmful chemicals like sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which have immediate and long-term negative impacts on human health, particularly for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Furthermore, noise pollution from crackers significantly affects the elderly, infants, and animals, causing considerable distress.
Every year around this time, Delhi's residents face significant health risks due to the deteriorating air quality. With Air Quality Index (AQI) levels frequently exceeding 400 in many areas, the risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiac conditions, and mental health impacts rises dramatically. Hospitals report a 10-15% increase in respiratory cases during this season, and conditions like asthma and COPD worsen for many. The particulate matter in the air can penetrate deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and aggravating heart and lung diseases. Vulnerable groups, including children, elderly people, and those with compromised immunity, are at greater risk, as are pets and wildlife.
The Delhi government has implemented several preventive measures to combat the air pollution crisis. These include banning firecrackers, enforcing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), and launching public awareness campaigns. The GRAP imposes restrictions on construction activities, industrial operations, and the use of diesel generators. However, while necessary, these steps have seen limited success. Despite the ban, firecracker use remains prevalent, with nearly 18% of Delhi-NCR families planning to burst crackers despite the health risks, according to a survey by the NGO 'LocalCircles'. Enforcing the ban effectively remains challenging, as the cultural attachment to firecrackers and the lack of stringent penalties make compliance difficult.
The recurring pollution crisis in Delhi necessitates a comprehensive, long-term approach beyond temporary solutions. Key measures should include expanding public transport to reduce private vehicle use, increasing green cover to absorb pollutants, shifting industries toward clean energy, and launching awareness campaigns on pollution's health risks and eco-friendly celebrations.
Diwali, known as the festival of lights, can be celebrated in more sustainable ways. People are being encouraged to celebrate Diwali through more eco-friendly celebrations, such as lighting earthen lamps ('diyas') and using LED lights. By avoiding firecrackers, we can honour the spirit of Diwali without compromising the health of Delhi's residents or the environment. The fight against pollution in Delhi is not just about curbing one festive tradition; it's about creating a sustainable future where air quality doesn't dictate the quality of life. This Diwali, let's focus on celebrating with light and love, not smoke and noise, and take a step towards a cleaner, healthier Delhi.
Source: Delhi Air Pollution: A Diwali Trigger Or Annual Phenomenon? News24 -