Violations of Firecracker Ban Evident in Delhi Despite Supreme Court Order on Diwali

Despite the Supreme Court’s ban on firecrackers during Diwali to combat air pollution, several areas in Delhi witnessed violations as people engaged in festive celebrations. In places like Shahpur Jat and Hauz Khas, individuals were seen gathering in parks to burst firecrackers, albeit at a lower intensity compared to previous years. Environmentalists expressed dismay over the lack of effective enforcement, and complaints were registered in areas like Defence Colony. The violations raise concerns about the impact on air quality, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness regarding environmental responsibilities during festive seasons.

It’s noteworthy that the Supreme Court’s order banning firecrackers containing barium was not limited to the Delhi-NCR region but applied to every state. The court had emphasized the need to curb air pollution, which tends to escalate during the Diwali festivities due to increased firecracker usage. Despite such directives, the challenge lies in ensuring widespread compliance and addressing the cultural and societal aspects that contribute to the tradition of bursting firecrackers during celebrations. Effective strategies encompassing stringent enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and alternative eco-friendly celebrations are crucial to achieving a sustained reduction in firecracker-related pollution.