Kejriwal warns of severe pollution, asks Delhi to go cracker-free this Diwali

In a bold appeal to Delhi residents, former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged people to forgo firecrackers this Diwali, emphasizing that this decision isn’t a favour to anyone but a shared responsibility for public health. Kejriwal’s message comes as air pollution remains a pressing concern, especially during winter, when pollution levels typically spike due to festival celebrations and weather patterns that trap pollutants over the city.

Delhi’s air quality, which often veers into hazardous levels following Diwali celebrations, has prompted Kejriwal to push for a “pollution-free Diwali.” He argued that abandoning crackers is a key step towards minimizing this annual health crisis, which puts vulnerable residents—particularly children and the elderly—at significant risk. Kejriwal underscored that with air quality indexes typically showing alarming trends post-Diwali, this appeal should resonate not just with environmental advocates but with all residents of the densely populated capital.

Public health vs. cultural tradition: A necessary compromise?

Kejriwal’s call touches on a delicate issue, as Diwali traditions hold deep-rooted cultural significance for millions. However, he pointed out that environmental concerns are not exclusive to Delhi; cities globally are adopting similar measures to reduce pollution during festive seasons. Health experts in the region have frequently cautioned about the increased respiratory risks associated with exposure to firecracker pollution, which releases a cocktail of harmful chemicals, including sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. This pollution disproportionately affects children and the elderly, exacerbating conditions like asthma and bronchitis, especially as Delhi’s dense smog settles in after Diwali.

The Delhi government’s environmental initiatives align closely with Kejriwal’s message. In recent years, campaigns have aimed at reducing cracker usage while promoting alternative ways to celebrate the festival, such as lighting diyas, which represent the traditional spirit of Diwali without compromising air quality. These programs have involved local artisans, promoting eco-friendly products as alternatives to traditional firecrackers.

Environmental experts endorse Kejriwal’s stance

Environmentalists have rallied around Kejriwal’s call, noting that collective participation is crucial if Delhi is to see any noticeable improvement in post-Diwali air quality. Government studies underscore that pollution during Diwali, fueled by firecracker usage, causes AQI levels to surge, leading to prolonged periods of dense smog. Environmental advocacy groups and NGOs have further reinforced this message, encouraging residents to consider eco-friendly options. Some of these organizations have also pointed to alternatives embraced by other states and countries, suggesting that Delhiites can adopt similar traditions to celebrate without contributing to harmful pollution.

The CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) has issued data illustrating the substantial rise in pollution levels directly following Diwali celebrations. Despite previous bans and public awareness campaigns, reports indicate that approximately 18% of families in Delhi still use firecrackers, complicating efforts to reduce seasonal air quality hazards. Experts argue that educating the public about pollution’s impact on respiratory health is a crucial step in addressing this resistance to change.

Shifting cultural perspectives on sustainable celebrations

Kejriwal’s appeal is part of a broader shift, with an emphasis on reimagining cultural celebrations that do not compromise environmental health. Younger generations, often more environmentally conscious, have shown particular openness to this shift. Kejriwal’s call, coupled with support from environmental advocates, signals a gradual transformation, with many Delhiites considering cleaner ways to celebrate Diwali while acknowledging the reality of air pollution. He reiterated that choosing a cracker-free Diwali is not about restricting traditions but about embracing a safer and healthier approach that benefits the entire community.