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By APD Writer Rishika Chauhan
NEW DELHI, October 10 (APD): To improve the deteriorating air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court of India on Monday banned the sale of firecrackers in and around New Delhi.
The decision is being understood as a pre-emptive step to stop a toxic haze from immersing the area like it happened last year during this time of the year when Indians celebrate the festival of Diwali by bursting firecrackers.
This year Diwali, the festival of light will be celebrated across the country on October 19. In November last year, unpleasant smog engulfed the region forcing authorities to close schools and ban construction activities after Diwali.
Air pollution resulting from millions of fireworks lit during the festival caused immense worry and inconvenience throughout the capital.
Moreover, burning of left over crop in provinces surrounding Delhi, vehicle exhaust and construction dust, added to the pollution.
The court had previously, banned the sale of firecrackers, but relaxed the restrictions on September 12 this year after the fireworks manufacturers appealed. According to the court, a complete ban would be a “radical step”.
On Monday, however the court banned firecrackers until November 1. Though there is no prohibition on lighting celebratory firecrackers or their sale outside the Delhi and the National Capital Region.
In the judgement, the court said, “Insofar as adverse effects of burning of crackers during Diwali are concerned, those have been witnessed year after year. The air quality deteriorates abysmally and alarmingly and the city chokes thereby.”
Air pollution experts, including Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) as well as the global environmental group Greenpeace supported the ban.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
