Delhi reiterates commitment to fighting air pollution, reintroduces ban on firecrackers

The Delhi government has reiterated its commitment to continuing a ban on the production, sale, use, and storage of firecrackers, in a bid to protect the air quality in the city.

In continuation of its policy last year, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government has decided to continue with the ban, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai confirmed on Monday.

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The ban on the said activities involving firecrackers will remain in place till January 1, 2025,

Besides, the ban will include online sales and related deliveries, he further said. 

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In order to ensure strict enforcement of the law, the Delhi government will engage in talks with Delhi Police, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and the national capital's revenue department, the Delhi minister said. 

The Delhi government is working on a winder action plan on the basis of 21 areas of focus, he added.

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The national capital has been battling poor air quality, especially during the winter months, with several rules and regulations related to pollution including vehicular traffic.

The quality of air in a particular geographical location is measured by the Air Quality Index (AQI), which provides an overview of how air is likely to impact the health of the local population.

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A higher reading of the Air Quality Index translates to more dangerous levels of air pollution, and hence bigger health concerns, and vice versa.