'We Are Distributing Bronchitis On Diwali' IAS Officer R Rajendran Raises Alarm Over Firecracker Pollution And Health Risks In Bhopal

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: Labour Secretary R Rajendran has issued a warning regarding the environmental impact of Diwali celebrations, particularly the extensive pollution caused by firecrackers. In his social media post, Rajendran lamented the commercialization of the festival, where sales, festive offers, and shopping now dominate the festivities.

He emphasized that the true spirit of Diwali, symbolizing light and knowledge, is overshadowed by the market-driven aspects. The ideal gift on Diwali, he stated, should be clean air for all, but instead, people exchange sugary sweets, packaged savouries, and gifts that recipients may not need. Firecrackers, he pointed out, contribute significantly to the problem, emitting harmful smoke containing fine particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and metallic compounds used for coloring.

This pollution can lead to degraded air quality, often reaching poor or severe categories, especially after Diwali. When wind speeds are low, the smog can linger for several days, posing severe health risks. Fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health issues, are particularly susceptible.

Rajendran noted that people, whether or not they participate in bursting firecrackers, are forced to breathe the same polluted air. He called for collective action, urging every neighborhood to take a stand and initiate change. Rajendran expressed optimism that the next Diwali should be celebrated for its lamps rather than the smog it sometimes brings.