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Science
Green Firecrackers Fail to Alleviate Delhi’s Diwali Air Pollution
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 09 Nov 2026, 09:36 AM
👁 18
Despite lower emissions, green firecrackers used in Delhi during Diwali added little relief to the city’s already high pollution levels.
Delhi’s air quality deteriorated during Diwali, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe limits. Authorities had banned conventional firecrackers, encouraging green alternatives.
Green firecrackers emit fewer pollutants, but they are not emission‑free. A study by the Centre for Environmental Science found that even low‑emission variants released significant amounts of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides.
The Delhi Pollution Control Board reported that the overall pollution index rose by 12% during the Diwali period, despite the shift to green firecrackers. Residents complained of eye irritation and respiratory discomfort.
Officials say stricter enforcement of bans and better public awareness are needed to curb the spike in pollution. The government plans to introduce stricter regulations on all fireworks.
Green firecrackers emit fewer pollutants, but they are not emission‑free. A study by the Centre for Environmental Science found that even low‑emission variants released significant amounts of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides.
The Delhi Pollution Control Board reported that the overall pollution index rose by 12% during the Diwali period, despite the shift to green firecrackers. Residents complained of eye irritation and respiratory discomfort.
Officials say stricter enforcement of bans and better public awareness are needed to curb the spike in pollution. The government plans to introduce stricter regulations on all fireworks.