NEW DELHI: Diwali is just over a fortnight away, but the Delhi government hasn't started its anti-crackers drive. With temperatures falling already, we may be heading towards days with severely polluted air. The environment department has, however, written to the customs department seeking a complete ban on Chinese crackers.
It has also called a meeting with NGOs and experts on October 29 to develop a pre-winter air strategy that will also address Diwali pollution.
Chinese crackers are unregulated as they are not required to meet Indian firework standards. Most products do not specify materials used which is why it's impossible to determine their toxicity. Experts are concerned about lack of standardization in firecrackers-products in the market have a very wide range of air pollution potential.
"The Supreme Court's order restricting burning of crackers after 10pm is not followed; we also don't have dedicated spaces for people to burn firecrackers. There are leakages in the enforcement system because of which Chinese crackers-with very high sulphur and heavy metal content-have managed to enter the market. We think there should be standards to keep air pollution under control," said Anumita Roychowdhury, head of Centre for Science and Environment's Clean Air drive. CSE is also likely to make its recommendations to the Delhi government on the matter.
While Central Pollution Control Board has notified noise standards-sale or use of firecrackers generating noise exceeding 125 dB(AI) or 145 dB(C) at four metres distance from the point of bursting is prohibited-it doesn't specify air quality standards in detail. It only says that firecrackers must meet the ambient air quality standards. But this condition is flouted with impunity every year. "Air pollution is caused by chemicals-oxidising agents, metals and sulphur-and also because there is re-suspension of dust when crackers are burst. But we don't have regulations for them," said an official.
The Delhi government has asked the customs department to submit details of how many containers carrying Chinese crackers have been seized so far. But department officials said it's impossible to track the black market as well as curb entry of crackers through other Indian cities.
Environment secretary Ashwani Kumar told TOI that the government will issue appeals to traders, publish advertisements and use the 2,000-odd eco-clubs to conduct a drive. It will also put up boards at strategic locations displaying air quality data. "It's important for common people to know how poor the air is so that they take necessary steps," Kumar said.
