Firecrackers Wipe Out Rain Gain In Few Hours

Hours after uncontrolled bursting of crackers, city witnesses a surge in pollution levels as smoky haze returns

- UJWAL JALALI

THE Delhi government’s much flaunted ‘complete ban on storage, sale, and bursting of firecrackers in the already choked national capital stood in tatters within hours after the sunset on Diwali day. The little gains in terms of clear skies following two days of light showers since November 9 simply vanished as a thick smoke, mainly from firecrackers hung heavy over the city, pushing the air quality back into the hazardous category.

Firecrackers find a special place in the country during Diwali as they are burst to celebrate the festival, also called as “festival of lights”.

They are sold at licensed shops. However, the government for the last two years has been imposing a blanket ban on the storage, sale, and use of all types of firecrackers in the city to prevent the already polluted air from getting more toxic.