Why Delhi’s Air Quality Demands a Firecracker Ban: What Are the Risks?

Introduction

Delhi’s air quality has become a significant concern, particularly during the festive season of Diwali, when the bursting of firecrackers causes a sharp spike in pollution levels. Every year, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) plummets into the “severe” category, making the air hazardous for breathing. Firecrackers release harmful pollutants, including fine particulate matter, toxic gases, and heavy metals, which severely impact public health and the environment. With rising cases of respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation, the call for a ban on firecrackers is stronger than ever. This article explores why Delhi’s air quality demands such a ban and examines the risks involved if immediate action is not taken.

The Delhi government has acted swiftly ahead of the festive season, as the AAP government has announced a complete ban on the manufacturing, sale, and usage of firecrackers until January 1, 2025. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said, “We have to protect our city from the air pollution caused by using firecrackers.”

• Stray Animals: This season poses challenges for stray animals. Their keen senses of hearing and smell are vital for their survival, yet these are the most affected by disturbances, often leading to severe or even deadly consequences..

Pollution can be caused in various ways, whether it is air or something else. If we do not manage it in a timely manner, during the festive season, we see the entire country blanketed in air pollution, which spreads so much that its effects are visible even days later. “The pollution from firecrackers releases harmful gases such as CO2, sulfur dioxide, potassium, and nitrogen into the air, which can lead to respiratory issues like asthma, lung congestion, and, in severe cases, choking,” she added.

The distress experienced by these innocent, voiceless creatures due to loud noises is beyond words, as their sensitivity to sound is extremely high. Often, when people report aggressive behavior or bites from stray animals, this is a significant contributing factor behind it.

• For Pregnant Women: The effect of firecrackers is particularly related to sound and noise, which can be harmful to pregnant women depending on their stage of pregnancy.
  

• Air Pollution: When firecrackers ignite, they release toxic fumes containing harmful chemicals and heavy metals such as sulfur, lead, and copper. These pollutants greatly increase air pollution levels, potentially worsening existing health issues and triggering respiratory disorders.

• Noise Pollution: The persistent, loud noise from firecrackers can be highly disruptive to both humans and animals. For humans, it often leads to anxiety, stress, and even hearing damage, while for wildlife, it disrupts their natural behaviors and negatively impacts their habitats.
  

• Waste Generation: After the celebrations, the remnants of fireworks, such as paper, plastic, and metal parts, contribute to litter and solid waste pollution. Inadequate cleanup efforts only worsen the environmental damage, further impacting the ecosystem.

• Depletion of Resources: The manufacturing process of firecrackers has a large carbon footprint and consumes significant amounts of energy and natural resources, such as minerals. This increases the burden on planetary resources.
  

• Health Risks: Smoke and pollutants from fireworks pose increased health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Additionally, these pollutants can lead to eye irritation and other health complications.
  

Delhi’s decision to ban firecrackers until January 1, 2025, is a vital response to the severe air quality issues exacerbated by their use. Fireworks release harmful pollutants that worsen health conditions, disrupt wildlife, and contribute to environmental damage. This ban is essential for protecting public health and the environment during the festive season. By implementing this measure, Delhi aims to reduce pollution, safeguard vulnerable groups, and promote more sustainable celebrations.