Diwali Crackers: Fun Or Polluting Fumes?

Diwali, the festival of lights, has been celebrated in India for the last 2500 years. Fireworks have been a part of the celebrations since around 1400 AD. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern about the environmental impact of Diwali firecrackers. Studies have shown that firecrackers cause a significant increase in pollution levels, with some regions of India experiencing an 875% surge in pollution during Diwali. This has raised concerns about the health risks associated with firecracker pollution, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with existing lung diseases. While some states in India have banned the sale and use of fireworks during Diwali, the enforcement of these bans has been weak, and the air quality in cities like Delhi continues to deteriorate during the festival. This has led to calls for stricter enforcement of firecracker bans and the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives to ensure that cultural celebrations can continue without compromising the health of the population.

Diwali firecrackers cause an 875% spike in pollution in some regions of India

Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated in India. The festival is celebrated in the honour of Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana, as described in the Hindu epic Ramayana. During the festival, people decorate their homes with lights and burst firecrackers. However, these firecrackers have been found to cause a significant spike in pollution in some regions of India.

A recent report by Airvoice, an air quality control startup, revealed that pollution caused by Diwali firecrackers surged by 875% in some regions of the country. The study analysed data from 180 air quality monitoring stations across 14 states of India between 2017 and 2023. The research focused on PM2.5 levels, which are dangerous fine particulate matter known to cause severe health risks.

States like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, which already have high pollution levels, experience a significant increase in PM2.5 concentrations on Diwali night. In some areas, the levels were found to be up to nine times higher than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The report highlights the need for stricter enforcement of firecracker bans and the development of more effective strategies to curb pollution without compromising cultural celebrations.

The impact of Diwali firecrackers on air quality has also been studied in other years. For example, a 2018 study focused on five locations across Delhi and found that, in two out of the four years, crop burning did not coincide with Diwali celebrations, making it easier to isolate the effect of fireworks. This study found an increase in PM2.5 concentrations of almost 40% by the second day of the festival.

The burning of firecrackers during Diwali releases pollutants into the air, which can cause respiratory issues and worsen existing lung conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The toxic smoke can also affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks. It is important for individuals, especially those with existing health conditions, to take precautions to protect their health during the Diwali festivities.

The burning of firecrackers can cause lung problems and worsen conditions like asthma

The burning of firecrackers during Diwali releases harmful pollutants into the air, which can have detrimental effects on respiratory health. The smoke and chemicals produced by firecrackers can be inhaled, leading to lung problems and exacerbating existing conditions.

Inhalation of firecracker smoke can cause inflammation of the lungs, resulting in respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems. This is particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, as it can trigger bronchitic attacks in those with bronchitis or asthma. The toxic substances in firecrackers can also affect individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), potentially leading to respiratory failure and the need for ventilator support.

Children and the elderly are more susceptible to the harmful effects of firecracker pollution due to their increased sensitivity to contaminants and weaker immune systems. Individuals with existing lung diseases, such as asthma, COPD, or bronchitis, are also at higher risk of experiencing worsened symptoms and health complications. The impact of firecracker pollution extends beyond respiratory health, as the toxic smoke can affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks.

To minimize the harmful effects of firecracker pollution, especially during Diwali, it is advisable to stay indoors, particularly during fireworks displays. The use of face masks with filters can offer some protection, but it is important to note that they may not block the smallest and most harmful particles. Checking air quality indexes and local air quality data can help individuals make informed decisions about their exposure to pollution.

While the immediate impact of firecracker pollution may be felt within a short time frame, the long-term exposure to harmful metals released by firecrackers, such as aluminium, manganese, and cadmium, can pose significant respiratory risks. These toxic substances can linger in the environment, affecting individuals' respiratory health even after the festival smoke has cleared. Therefore, it is crucial to enforce stricter regulations and develop effective strategies to reduce pollution during Diwali celebrations without compromising cultural traditions.

Children and the elderly are more predisposed to the harmful effects of firecrackers

The use of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations has been a cause for concern due to the associated health and environmental risks. While firecrackers contribute to both air pollution and noise pollution, certain sections of the population are more vulnerable to their harmful effects, including children and the elderly.

Children and the elderly are more predisposed to the adverse effects of firecrackers due to their sensitive respiratory systems. Their lungs are more susceptible to contaminants, and they lack the immunity to effectively combat diseases. The smoke and chemicals released by firecrackers can lead to respiratory issues and worsen existing lung conditions. Children, in particular, are at a higher risk of developing health problems due to their developing respiratory systems. The smoke can cause irritability, difficulty concentrating, and breathing issues. Repeated exposure to firecracker smoke can have both short-term and long-term impacts on their health.

For the elderly, the pollutants and toxic particles released by firecrackers can disrupt sleep and cause respiratory issues, such as allergic bronchitis, resulting in sore throats, coughs, and colds. The risk is even greater for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other lung diseases. The smoke can worsen their symptoms and increase the likelihood of hospitalisation or respiratory failure.

In addition to respiratory issues, the noise from firecrackers can also lead to sleep disturbances in both children and the elderly. The loud noises can cause stress, anxiety, and depression in older individuals, as well as issues like sleeplessness and loss of appetite. The combination of smoke and noise can increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases in the elderly.

To minimise the harmful effects of firecrackers on children and the elderly, experts recommend limiting their exposure. Parents are advised to encourage children to remain indoors during firework displays and wear protective eyewear to prevent eye irritation. Similarly, elderly individuals are encouraged to stay indoors when the air quality is poor, especially during and immediately after Diwali, to reduce their risk of respiratory and cardiovascular complications.

The Indian government has banned the sale and use of firecrackers during Diwali, but enforcement has been weak

Fireworks and firecrackers are often used during Diwali celebrations in India. However, their use has been linked to worsening air quality and increased pollution, with a recent report revealing an 875% surge in pollution caused by Diwali firecrackers in some regions of the country.

The Indian government has implemented bans on the sale and use of firecrackers during Diwali in several states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu. These bans aim to curb pollution levels and protect public health, especially for those with existing respiratory conditions who are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of firecracker pollution.

However, enforcement of these bans has been challenging. People have continued to use firecrackers despite the restrictions, and illegal firecrackers are sometimes smuggled into states with strict bans from areas with more lenient laws. The high cost of living, including higher prices for firecrackers, has also dampened demand and may have contributed to a decrease in firecracker usage.

To improve enforcement, authorities are increasing their monitoring efforts to stop the unlawful distribution of firecrackers. Some states, like Delhi, have also implemented time restrictions for bursting crackers, advising citizens to use noiseless or "`green`" crackers that emit less pollution, and providing specific time slots for their use. These measures seek to balance festive traditions with environmental sustainability and the need to protect public health.

Overall, while the Indian government has taken steps to ban the sale and use of firecrackers during Diwali, weak enforcement has limited the effectiveness of these bans, and air pollution continues to be a critical concern during the Diwali season in India.

Despite a ban on firecrackers in Delhi, pollution levels on Diwali night in 2023 were 100% higher compared to years when firecrackers were allowed

The Indian festival of Diwali is a cause for celebration for many, but the burning of firecrackers during the festival has been a growing environmental concern. The firecrackers release pollutants into the air, contributing to the formation of harmful ozone and causing a spike in pollution levels. This is particularly true in northern states such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, where pollution is already a critical concern.

In an attempt to mitigate this issue, the Delhi government imposed a complete ban on the manufacturing, sale, storage, and use of all types of firecrackers in the Indian capital for Diwali 2023. This ban was implemented by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to address the worsening air quality and included restrictions on online sales and deliveries. Despite this ban, pollution levels on Diwali night in 2023 were still 100% higher compared to years when firecrackers were allowed. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of such bans in reducing pollution levels.

There are several reasons why the ban may not have been fully effective. Firstly, enforcement of the ban may have been challenging, especially with the increase in vehicle traffic during Diwali, as people travel to visit family and friends. In addition, the seasonal burning of farm stubble in neighbouring states contributes to the pollution levels in Delhi, and this practice continued despite a ban in 2015. The impact of farm stubble burning can vary daily, and in the weeks leading up to Diwali 2023, the number of fires increased, according to India's official air quality warning system.

Furthermore, alternative, eco-friendlier celebrations may be necessary to combat the pollution crisis. Experts have also pointed out the need for more air quality monitoring stations to better understand the current pollution levels and assess the effectiveness of government regulations. While the ban on firecrackers is a step in the right direction, more effective strategies may be required to curb pollution without compromising cultural celebrations.

The high pollution levels during Diwali have significant health impacts. The smoke and air pollution from firecrackers can affect the respiratory system, causing short-term symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems, especially for those with existing conditions like asthma, COPD, and bronchitis. Certain sections of the population, including children, the elderly, and people with heart-related issues, are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of firecracker pollution.

Frequently asked questions