Delhi bans firecrackers until January 1 amid efforts to curb pollution levels

The city's air quality has reached the 'poor' category, prompting the government to take action. Rai said, "We cannot change the weather, but we are trying to reduce pollution sources."

"We have imposed a ban on firecrackers. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued a directive today. From now until January 1, there will be a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and use of firecrackers within Delhi. We appeal to everyone that every little bit contributes to the ocean. If we all work together to control the sources of pollution, the quality of life for Delhi's residents will improve", the Environment Minister told ANI.

In response to increasing pollution levels in Delhi during the winter season, the Environment Minister announced the escalation of an anti-dust campaign across the city. "In Delhi, during the winter season, when the air becomes still, it stops raining, and the temperature drops, pollution levels rise," he explained. The campaign began on October 7, and since then, surprise inspections have revealed that many construction sites are not following regulations, leading to dust pollution.

On Monday, the campaign intensified, with inspection operations starting in various locations. Rai visited Pritam Pura, where a sports complex hostel is being built by Tevatia Construction Private Limited. He noted that compliance with regulations was minimal at the site, resulting in a Rs50,000 fine imposed on the company by the DPCC. As per Rai, the company has been given one week to comply with the regulations, and failure to do so will lead to increased penalties.

Regarding previously imposed fines, Rai said, "Last time, we had imposed fines on certain individuals and given them a week to respond. That period ended yesterday. If they do not provide a response today and fail to comply with the regulations, stricter actions will be taken against them."

The minister addressed concerns about the recent decline in air quality. "The weather department's forecast suggests that temperatures will rapidly drop now. As the cold increases, the pollution particles in the atmosphere will settle lower," Rai said. He emphasised that to combat pollution, the government must focus on reducing pollution sources, including dust, vehicle emissions, and biomass burning.

"There is certainly one weapon: we need to reduce the sources. To this end, the government is advancing with 11 measures, and as needed, in emergency situations, the government will also move towards emergency measures," Rai said. (ANI)