New Delhi: The national capital’s air quality deteriorated to the “very poor” category on Thursday evening, with expectations of further decline into the “severe” category on Diwali night. At 4 pm, the city’s 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) was reported at 328, a rise from 307 the previous day, according to PTI. In response, the Delhi government has enacted a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers.
On the eve of Diwali, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the establishment of 377 teams to enforce this firecracker ban throughout the national capital. He said that the authorities are collaborating with resident welfare associations, market groups and social organisations to raise awareness about the ban.
Rai said, “If we all come together and remember to celebrate Diwali with diyas and distribute sweets instead of causing distress to our children and elders by bursting crackers, we can help prevent the annual smoke that blankets Delhi after Diwali.”
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Delhi Police mobilises teams to enforce firecracker ban
Apart from that, the Delhi Police have formed teams dedicated to preventing the use of firecrackers. An officer confirmed, “Legal action will be initiated against anyone caught bursting crackers. They may also face charges under the relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for breaching government orders,” according to a PTI report.
Air quality index
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorises the air quality index as follows: 0-50 is “good,” 51-100 is “satisfactory,” 101-200 is “moderate,” 201-300 is “poor,” 301-400 is “very poor,” and anything over 400 is classified as “severe.”
