Diwali 2024: The Air Quality Problem in Delhi

As we get closer to Diwali 2024, the capital city Delhi is facing a critical environmental challenge of air pollution. Every year the city witnesses an increase in air pollution during the festival season as well. As the government, citizens, and organizations try to sort this issue, it is necessary to know the perils of the situation, the steps being advocated, and the consequences of such air quality on the well-being of the people.

Air Quality in Delhi: An Indifferent Problem That Continues To Evolve

Delhi’s air quality particularly degrades during Diwali with large amounts of firecrackers being the main cause of the problem. But, this year does seem grimmer than the rest. The quality of air has reached alarming standards resulting in the AQI being pushed into a ‘severe’ classification. Because of this, health warning notifications have been issued by the government and people are advised not to go outside too much.

There are numerous people and industries that contribute to the degradation of air quality. These include car exhaust, industrial waste emissions, and most notably, fireworks

The winter season in the area reaches its climax the time of the year when the people celebrate diwali in delhi for example. Besides this, the farmers from states bordering Delhi also resort to stubble burning, further contributing to the already toxic fog that engulfs the national capital. Because of this, a great amount of pollution is present outside posing health concerns to many living in Delhi.

As the people of delhi light up firecrackers and come together to celebrate this festival, even the little smoke that is present in the air becomes a nuisance. This poses a serious health threat to children, old age and those who already have respiratory diseases.

Policies of Governance on Air Pollution Control Measures

Because of the deteriorating situation in the nations’ capital in terms of air quality, the government of Delhi has come up with measures to address this situation. These include implementation of a temporary firecrackers ban in the city together with a ban on other pollutants complacent with cleansing measures on pollution emissions. Monitoring of pollution was also made in an effective way whereby pollution weather maps were used to determine how polluted a particular area was and even when new information such as new reported diseases or hampering of air quality.

The government has stepped up the fight against industrial emissions and works towards the betterment of waste management. In addition to this, Delhi’s Chief Minister has also appealed to the states in neighboring regions to put an end to stubble burning which is a prime cause of the seasonal haze. However, such steps are not effective because of a lack of concerted efforts across the different tiers of government to implement the measures.

Public Responsibility and Awareness for the Environment

The government initiatives are needful but active participation from the public is also imperative. Environment activists and several organizations have already made efforts to sensitize the populace on the adverse effects caused by firecrackers. A multitude of organizations have compelled the Indian inhabitants to partake in the festivities in a more environmentally sustainable manner by suggesting the use of air cleaners, sporting less noxious combustibles and forgoing the usual fireworks for LED decorative lights.

Social media and public relations have skyrocketed with people joining families and promising not to use firecrackers. Promoting such campaigns certainly helps towards changing public perception and actions. People of many areas in Delhi are also seeking out other light alternatives for the festival of lights, which are less damaging to the atmosphere. More and more people have joined in this movement as many believe that reducing the amount of firecrackers will aid the environment.

Health Impacts Associated with Dust of Poor Air Quality

Health professionals state that such exposure is likely to cause chronic respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and lung cancer over the years to individuals who breathe air with a high amount of pollutants. Quite specifically, young children as well older adults, who have weaker immune systems, are at the greatest risk of exposure.

Safe Diwali: What Are the Safer Firecrackers to Use Other Than Normal Firecrackers

With the increasing number of people advocating for a “Green Diwali”, many have turned to more environmentally friendly options to firecrackers. For instance, the perceived eco- friendly alternative which emits less sound and smoke to environmental friendly crackers. Also, certain families or communities tend to employ laser shows together with lights and sound-less crackers to make their celebrations less damaging.

In addition, Delhi’s communities have come together in an effort to celebrate the festival in a noise free manner by organizing events that do not involve the use of firecrackers. Such activities include cultural shows, food fairs, and prayer gatherings. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of the environment but also help strengthen the bonds of society.

The Future of Air Quality in Delhi

The war on air pollution in Delhi is still ongoing, however with the advancing climate change and increasing populations it will always be a problem. Although the scenario may appear bleak, there is optimism through the collective action of the government, citizens beneath the leadership of environment protecting organizations.

This Diwali, while Delhi chokes in pollution, health and safety as well as the environment have to take center stage over celebrations. It is true that celebrations are very important part of life, however it is possible in the future generations to enjoy the festival without compromising their health or that of the environment.

Conclusion: A shared responsibility

The crisis over air quality in Delhi is alarming for all of us. If every one of us takes such small steps, we can all be part of a cleaner and healthier Delhi.

Let’s transform this Diwali into a festival for the sensible rather than the the irresponsible. Click here for the source