Diwali Crackers: Air Pollution And Health Hazards

Diwali, also known as the row of lights, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in India with lights and firecrackers. The festival, which goes back at least 150 years, is a time of happiness and festivity. However, the firecrackers used during Diwali have been linked to air pollution and health issues. While some argue that Diwali's impact on air quality is minor compared to other sources of pollution, studies have shown a significant increase in atmospheric pollutants and a degradation of air quality during the festival. The toxic smoke and chemicals released from firecrackers can cause respiratory issues, worsen existing lung conditions, and lead to other critical health problems. As a result, several measures have been implemented to reduce pollution during Diwali, including the development of green crackers, which are designed to be more environmentally friendly.

Firecrackers and fireworks release pollutants into the air

The pollutants released from firecrackers include particulate matter (PM), such as PM 2.5 and PM 10, which are tiny particles that can enter the throat and lungs, causing serious health issues. These fine particles can lead to respiratory problems, including lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, interstitial lung disease (ILD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The toxic smoke can also affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks. Certain groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with existing lung or heart conditions, are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of firecracker pollution.

To address the issue of firecracker pollution during Diwali, "green crackers" have been introduced. These environmentally friendly fireworks are designed to reduce particulate matter pollution by up to 30%. They are made with alternative chemicals, such as potassium nitrate and aluminium, instead of more harmful substances like barium nitrate, magnesium, and arsenic. While green crackers are a step in the right direction, their production is limited, and they are not completely pollution-free.

Despite the efforts to mitigate firecracker pollution, some argue that the impact of Diwali crackers on air quality is minor compared to other sources of pollution present throughout the year. They point out that the tradition of bursting crackers during Diwali has a long history and holds cultural significance. However, the data shows a significant increase in atmospheric pollutants during Diwali, and the air quality index (AQI) often falls into the "'very poor'" category on the day after the festival.

Overall, while Diwali firecrackers and fireworks are a source of joy and celebration for many, they also release pollutants into the air, impacting the respiratory and cardiovascular health of vulnerable individuals. The use of green crackers and the implementation of pollution management strategies can help reduce the environmental and health impacts of firecrackers during the Diwali festival.

The effects of Diwali firecrackers on lung health

Diwali firecrackers have a significant impact on lung health. The emissions from firecrackers consist of harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), lead, and barium. These pollutants, when inhaled, enter the throat and lungs, leading to serious long-term health effects. The high levels of pollution during Diwali can particularly affect children, pregnant women, and senior citizens.

The smoke from firecrackers contains fine toxic dust and a blend of toxic chemicals, including sulfur-coal compounds, heavy metals, and harmful gases. This toxic mixture causes a range of respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and other severe respiratory complications. The air gets infused with pollutants like lead, magnesium, and nitrate, further exacerbating health problems.

For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, the impact of Diwali firecrackers can be even more severe. Pollutants can trigger bronchospasm and inflammation in the airways, causing episodes of wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness. People with asthma may find their regular medications less effective and may require treatment adjustments. Those with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can experience worsened symptoms, including cough and phlegm, and may suffer lung function decline, potentially leading to hospitalization. Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) patients may also experience worsening symptoms due to pollutant-induced inflammation.

Even healthy individuals are not exempt from the effects of Diwali-related air pollution. Repeated exposure during the days of celebration can lead to respiratory irritations, reduced lung function, and the development of chronic respiratory conditions. Fine particulate matter and toxic gases can cause temporary lung function impairment, resulting in labored breathing.

To mitigate the impact of Diwali firecrackers on lung health, several strategies can be employed. These include opting for green crackers, which are relatively cleaner and safer than regular crackers, and participating in community firework displays to limit the volume of pollutants released. Additionally, individuals can prioritize respiratory health by maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants and staying properly hydrated to support the body's natural detoxification processes.

The impact of firecrackers on the atmosphere and air quality

The use of firecrackers during Diwali is a highly debated topic, with many people arguing for and against it. While some argue that it is a part of a living history that should be preserved, others highlight the adverse effects of firecrackers on the atmosphere and air quality.

Firecrackers, when burned, undergo a chemical reaction called combustion, producing a range of toxic atmospheric pollutants. These include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter. The release of these pollutants affects air quality and contributes to climate change. The particulate matter, with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, is of particular concern as it can be inhaled, leading to adverse health effects. These fine particles can enter the throat and lungs, causing serious long-term health issues, especially for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Studies have shown that during Diwali, a festival celebrated with firecrackers in India, about 50,000 tons of fireworks explode, resulting in a toxic haze that covers cities. This haze, known as particle pollution, is considered the most hazardous air pollutant. It affects people's lungs and hearts and causes environmental damage. The high levels of pollution during Diwali have been reported to impact air quality significantly, with elevated levels of particulate matter and various metallic components and gases identified in the atmosphere.

To address the issue of firecracker pollution, some countries have implemented policies to reduce their environmental impact. For example, the city of Zhengzhou in China enforced a policy prohibiting fireworks, which led to improvements in its Air Quality Index. Additionally, India has developed "green crackers," which are relatively cleaner and safer than regular crackers. These crackers are made with less harmful raw materials and have additives that reduce emissions by suppressing dust. However, the production of green crackers is limited, and they are not completely pollution-free.

In conclusion, the use of firecrackers during Diwali has a significant impact on the atmosphere and air quality, leading to increased pollution and adverse health effects. While traditions are important, it is crucial to consider the well-being of people and the planet. Implementing alternative solutions, such as green crackers or policies regulating firecracker use, can help minimize the detrimental effects of firecrackers on the atmosphere and air quality.

Green crackers: a solution to Diwali pollution?

Diwali is a festival celebrated with much pomp and show, with fireworks being one of the main attractions. However, with growing environmental concerns, the harmful effects of traditional crackers on the increasing pollution levels cannot be ignored.

Traditional firecrackers emit about 160 decibels of sound and release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, increasing particulate matter (PM) levels in the air. These fine particles enter the throat and lungs, causing serious long-term health effects, especially in children, pregnant women, and senior citizens.

To address this issue, green crackers have been introduced as a more environmentally friendly alternative. These crackers are designed to reduce pollution and the harmful effects of traditional crackers. Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the National Environmental and Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), green crackers are made with alternative chemicals such as potassium nitrate and aluminium instead of harmful substances like magnesium, barium, arsenic, and other pollutants. They also have a smaller shell size, produce less noise, and emit water vapour, which helps to suppress dust and reduce air pollution.

Green crackers are not completely pollution-free, but they are relatively cleaner and safer than regular crackers. They are identified by their distinctive green colour logo of CSIR-NEERI and PESO, as well as a Quick Response (QR) code on the packaging. In 2018, the Supreme Court banned the use of traditional firecrackers and allowed only the use of green crackers during Diwali.

However, there are some drawbacks to green crackers. The ingredients needed to make them are not easily accessible, and only manufacturers with an agreement with CSIR are allowed to produce them. Despite these challenges, green crackers offer a more sustainable option for Diwali celebrations, allowing people to continue the tradition of bursting crackers while being mindful of the environment.

Diwali's contribution to pollution in Delhi

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is a time of celebration for people in Delhi, India. However, the festivities also contribute to the city's already poor air quality.

The use of firecrackers during Diwali releases toxic smoke, pushing Delhi's air pollution to hazardous levels. The smoke contains fine particles that can enter the throat and lungs, causing serious long-term health effects, particularly for children, pregnant women, and senior citizens. While the local government has banned firecrackers during Diwali and the winter in recent years, enforcement has proven challenging.

The impact of Diwali firecrackers on Delhi's air quality is significant, with the city topping global pollution charts in 2024. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded a "very poor" air quality index (AQI) level of 339 in the 24 hours after the festival in 2024, marginally lower than the year before. The day after Diwali in 2024, a thick layer of toxic smog cloaked India's capital, with air pollution reaching hazardous levels.

In addition to firecrackers, other factors contribute to Delhi's poor air quality during Diwali. These include the burning of farm stubble in neighbouring states like Punjab and Haryana, which can account for a significant portion of PM 2.5 levels, especially when crop burning coincides with the festival. For example, in November 2021, a week after Diwali, farm fires contributed 48% of PM 2.5 levels, while two weeks later, this had decreased to only 10%.

While some argue that Diwali's contribution to pollution is minor compared to other sources, such as factories and vehicles, it is still a concern. The use of "green crackers," which are environmentally friendly fireworks, has been proposed as a potential solution to reduce air pollution during Diwali celebrations. These crackers are designed to reduce particulate matter pollution by up to 30% and do not contain some of the most harmful ingredients found in traditional crackers.

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