Delhi Minister Defends Firecrackers Amid Rising Pollution Levels

Delhi’s air quality has significantly declined following the Diwali celebrations, prompting local officials to address the potential impact of firecrackers. Majinder Singh Sirsa, a minister in the Delhi government, presented a detailed analysis of air quality data during a press conference, defending the use of firecrackers and disputing claims that they are primarily responsible for the pollution.

According to Sirsa, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 359 as of 10:00 hours on October 25, 2023. This marked a severe decline in air quality, with areas such as Bawana and Jahangirpuri registering AQI levels of 432 and 405, respectively, categorizing them as severely polluted. In his remarks, Sirsa compared air quality statistics from previous years, stating that the AQI was 414 before Diwali in 2020 and rose to 435 afterward, indicating an increase of 21 points.

In 2021, he noted a more significant rise of 80 points from pre-Diwali to post-Diwali readings. He then contrasted these figures with the year 2024, when firecrackers were banned. During that period, the AQI increased from 328 to 360, a rise of 32 points. Sirsa emphasized that with the introduction of green firecrackers this year, the AQI was 345 before Diwali and rose to only 356 afterward, an increase of just 11 points.

Sirsa challenged the narrative that attributes the city’s pollution solely to Diwali festivities. He stated, “Will you hold Diwali responsible for this? Will you hold the faith of all the Sanatanas and Hindus in Delhi accountable?” His comments were directed at critics who argue that the celebratory use of firecrackers contributes significantly to air pollution levels.

He also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for what he called “appeasement politics” and accused the party of using Diwali as a scapegoat to divert attention from other pollution sources. “Arvind Kejriwal first deliberately banned firecrackers in Delhi to garner the votes of a particular community,” Sirsa alleged, referring to the Delhi Chief Minister’s previous measures.

In addition, Sirsa condemned the AAP government in Punjab for its handling of stubble burning, suggesting that farmers are being coerced into practices that contribute to air quality issues in Delhi. He asserted that farmers do not want to burn stubble but are being forced into it, which exacerbates pollution in the national capital.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) continues to monitor air quality in Delhi, and as of the latest reports, the overall AQI reflects a concerning trend. The CPCB’s Sameer App shows that immediate action is necessary to address the alarming pollution levels, especially in regions most affected by severe air quality.

As the debate over firecrackers and air pollution continues, the Delhi government faces mounting pressure to find effective solutions to improve air quality and address the health implications for its residents.