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Supreme Court asks - Why not a complete ban on firecrackers? No religion promotes pollution

New Delhi, Diwali 2023:

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre and states why there cannot be a complete ban on firecrackers, saying "no religion promotes pollution". A bench headed by Justice M R Shah said, "We are not against any festival. We are also Hindus but we are also concerned about the health of the people". The bench, also comprising Justices A S Bopanna and V Nageswara Rao, observed that firecrackers cause air pollution and affect the health of people, especially children and senior citizens. The court added that even though firecrackers may be a part of Diwali celebrations, they are not essential for the festival. The bench said, "We are not against any religion. But no religion promotes pollution. In fact, all religions promote the protection of the environment". The top court was hearing a plea filed by a group of doctors seeking a ban on the sale and use of firecrackers during Diwali. The next date of hearing in the matter has been fixed for October 24. The Supreme Court's observation comes amid concerns over the rising air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR during Diwali. Last year, the court had imposed a ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in the region. However, the ban was lifted after Diwali. This year, the Delhi government has imposed a ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in the city. The ban will be in place from October 21 to October 27. However, the government has allowed the use of green crackers, which are said to be less polluting.

What are the harmful effects of firecrackers?

Firecrackers release a number of harmful pollutants into the air, including particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. * **Particulate matter** is a major component of smog. It can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problemas such as asthma and bronchitis. * **Sulfur dioxide** is a colorless gas that can cause respiratory irritation and inflammation. It can also contribute to the formation of acid rain. * **Nitrogen oxides** are a group of gases that can cause respiratory irritation and inflammation. They can also contribute to the formation of ozone, a harmful air pollutant.

What can be done to reduce air pollution from firecrackers?

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce air pollution from firecrackers, including: * **Banning the sale and use of firecrackers**. This is the most effective way to reduce air pollution from firecrackers. * **Promoting the use of green crackers**. Green crackers are firecrackers that are designed to produce less pollution. * **Educating the public about the harmful effects of firecrackers**. This can help to reduce the demand for firecrackers. * **Enforcing the ban on firecrackers**. This can help to prevent people from using firecrackers.

Conclusion

A complete ban on firecrackers is necessary to protect public health and the environment. The Supreme Court's observation that "no religion promotes pollution" is a clear indication that the court is serious about addressing the issue of air pollution from firecrackers. It is now up to the Centre and states to take appropriate action to implement a complete ban on firecrackers.