Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens: Arvind Kejriwal Urges No Firecrackers for Diwali
On October 31, a thick layer of smog enveloped parts of New Delhi, with air quality reaching the ‘Severe’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 7:00 am, Anand Vihar recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 419. Other areas like Aya Nagar, Jahangirpuri, and Dwarka reported AQIs of 308, 395, and 359, respectively, all in the ‘Very Poor’ category.
Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal urged residents to avoid bursting firecrackers during Diwali, emphasizing the festival’s focus on lights rather than fireworks. He highlighted that pollution affects everyone, regardless of religion, and stressed the importance of protecting children’s health.
In response to rising pollution levels, the Delhi government has implemented measures to control air pollution, including a ban on firecrackers. Environment Minister Gopal Rai wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, urging strict enforcement of the ban. Despite the ban, firecrackers are reportedly being sold in Delhi markets, brought in from neighboring states. Rai criticized law enforcement for not taking the ban seriously.
Doubts Revealed
Air Quality -: Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air is. Poor air quality means there are harmful substances in the air that can make it difficult to breathe and can cause health problems.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is caused by smoke and other pollutants mixing with the air, making it hard to see and breathe.
AQI -: AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a number used to tell how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted and can be harmful to health.
Arvind Kejriwal -: Arvind Kejriwal is the Chief Minister of Delhi, which means he is the head of the government in Delhi. He makes important decisions to help improve the city and its people’s lives.
Diwali -: Diwali is a popular festival in India, also known as the Festival of Lights. People celebrate it by lighting lamps, bursting firecrackers, and sharing sweets.
Firecrackers -: Firecrackers are small explosive devices used for celebrations, especially during festivals like Diwali. They make loud noises and bright lights but can cause air pollution.
Environment Minister -: The Environment Minister is a government official responsible for protecting the environment and making sure that laws to reduce pollution are followed.
Health Risks -: Health risks refer to the chances of getting sick or having health problems. Poor air quality can cause breathing issues, especially for children and older people.
