In a decisive move to combat escalating air pollution, the Delhi government has imposed a complete ban on the production, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers until January 1, 2025. This significant measure, announced on Monday, is part of the city’s broader strategy to address rising pollution levels, especially during the winter months when air quality deteriorates.
Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, provided details about the ban, which encompasses all forms of firecracker sales, both physical and online. A letter outlining the ban has been dispatched to the Delhi Police Commissioner, emphasizing the necessity of stringent enforcement.
“The Government of NCT of Delhi has decided to impose a complete ban on manufacturing, storage, selling (including delivery through online marketing platforms) on all kinds of firecrackers and bursting thereof up to January 1, 2025, in the territory of NCT of Delhi,” the letter stated. It further stipulated that daily action reports must be submitted to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee at the email ID: msdpcc@nic.in.
Minister Rai has urged residents to cooperate with the ban, highlighting its importance for public health and environmental preservation. The ban comes on the heels of Rai’s announcement on October 9 regarding the 21-point Winter Action Plan, which identified several agencies as negligent during ground inspections. In response, a meeting was convened with over 120 agencies involved in construction work across the city.
“The Delhi government is actively working to curb pollution in the city,” Rai asserted. As part of this commitment, an anti-dust campaign was initiated on October 7 to address dust pollution, a significant contributor to the city’s deteriorating air quality.
Winter in Delhi poses a persistent challenge, with low temperatures, stagnant air, and reduced rainfall exacerbating pollution levels. Minister Rai emphasized the need for collective efforts, stating, “We must work together with citizens, the Central government, and neighboring states to effectively tackle winter pollution.”
Delhi is notoriously one of the most polluted cities in the world, with air quality particularly suffering in winter due to multiple factors. These include the burning of agricultural residue, low wind speeds, and the festive tradition of firecracker usage. The adverse effects of this polluted air are profound, causing severe health complications for residents year after year.
In addition to the firecracker ban, the government has activated a ‘war room’ to monitor pollution levels continuously. They have also launched the Green Delhi app to encourage resident participation in pollution control efforts, alongside the spraying of bio-decomposers to mitigate the impact of stubble burning.
The comprehensive measures reflect the Delhi government’s commitment to restoring cleaner air and safeguarding public health during the critical winter months ahead.