Delhi Diwali Fireworks: Irresponsible Acts Lead to Pollution Surge

Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood criticized those who burst firecrackers beyond the Supreme Court's permissible time limit on Diwali. While firecrackers were blamed for high pollution, they were not the sole cause. The air quality index hit 'very poor' levels post-Diwali, raising health concerns across the city.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated to 'very poor' levels following Diwali celebrations, with Home Minister Ashish Sood criticizing residents for bursting firecrackers beyond the allowable hours. He condemned the actions as 'irresponsible,' noting they contravened Supreme Court guidelines.

The court had lifted the ban on green firecrackers, permitting their use from 6 am to 7 am and 8 pm to 10 pm on specified days. Despite this, many individuals celebrated beyond the stipulated timeframe, contributing to the rise in pollution.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the city's air quality index ranked at 359, firmly placing Delhi in the 'very poor' category. Residents were greeted with a dense haze and low visibility, prompting calls for stricter adherence to guidelines and increased environmental responsibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)