Supreme Court Questions Use of Celebrities in Tackling Firecracker Ban in Delhi-NCR
The Supreme Court of India raises concerns over air pollution and suggests leveraging celebrities to raise awareness about firecracker bans.
New Delhi, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : The Supreme Court of India has reserved its judgment regarding the ban on firecrackers during Diwali in the Delhi-NCR region. This decision follows a hearing on October 29, where Justices M.M. Sundresh and Prasanna V. Barale posed tough questions to the central government, the Delhi government, and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) about their pollution control measures.
During the proceedings, the court emphasized that issuing orders alone is insufficient to combat air pollution. A comprehensive and long-term strategy is essential. The justices remarked, “Every year we issue orders, and it has become somewhat of an academic exercise. Our directives see more violations than compliance. We need to adopt innovative approaches.”
The court highlighted the importance of raising awareness, particularly among the younger generation. They questioned why the government has not sought the help of popular figures like cricketer Virat Kohli to educate the public about the dangers of firecrackers.
The judges noted that today’s youth are inquisitive. If they receive accurate information, they could influence their parents to refrain from using firecrackers.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the court that the government is ready to tackle pollution with a new action plan set to roll out on November 1. This plan includes allowing only BS-6 compliant vehicles into Delhi and adjusting government office hours to reduce traffic. Furthermore, 608 anti-smog guns have been deployed at construction sites to combat pollution.
However, Bhati acknowledged that air quality index (AQI) levels tend to spike on days when firecrackers are permitted. The court questioned why only nine out of 39 monitoring stations were operational and demanded a detailed compliance report regarding previous orders. They inquired about the formation of inspection teams, their activities, and whether data was collected and presented in court.
The justices stressed that merely passing orders is futile unless they are effectively implemented on the ground. Otherwise, the entire process risks becoming a farce.
The court also instructed the government to investigate the sale of Chinese firecrackers and the actions taken against such sales, noting that firecracker vendors aim for maximum profit, necessitating strict monitoring and enforcement.
While the court acknowledged the sentiments of those who wish to celebrate with fireworks, they clarified that they are not in favor of a complete ban due to potential long-term consequences. They urged the government to ensure strict monitoring during festival periods.
An amicus curiae appointed by the court highlighted the significant particulate matter released by firecrackers and the toxic gases produced from burning chemicals and metals. He noted alarming trends, such as non-smokers, including teenagers, now showing black spots in their lungs, a stark contrast to the past when only smokers were affected.
Concerns were raised about the sale and verification systems for the so-called “green crackers,” which are marketed as less polluting. Many products lack QR codes, and several of those that do exist have been found to be counterfeit. Even if green crackers are permitted, ensuring their authenticity in the market remains a challenge.
The amicus pointed out that green crackers are not entirely pollution-free. According to standards from CSIR and NEERI, they emit approximately 30% less pollution than traditional firecrackers, yet they still contribute significantly to air quality issues. Following the recent Dussehra celebrations, a sharp rise in AQI levels was recorded, posing a serious public health risk in regions like Delhi-NCR, where air quality is already poor.
They questioned how firecracker use could be permitted when essential activities are restricted during severe air quality conditions.
Petitioner Gopal Shankaranarayanan criticized the government for seeking two weeks to consider policy changes while firecracker sales continue unabated. He argued that immediate action is necessary if control measures are to be effective.
After hearing arguments from all parties, the Supreme Court has reserved its decision, with the final ruling expected to influence the use of firecrackers and air pollution control in the Delhi-NCR region during Diwali.
