Those Bursting Crackers Should be Called ‘Anti-National’: Maneka
As the festive season approaches, the topic of firecrackers and their impact on the environment has once again come to the forefront. BJP leader Maneka Gandhi has sparked a heated debate by calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, citing the severe air pollution caused by their bursting. According to Gandhi, the primary reason behind the deteriorating air quality in New Delhi is the reckless use of firecrackers during festivals.
Gandhi’s statement came as a shock to many, but it highlights the gravity of the situation. She emphasized that the bursting of firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in just two nights is a significant contributor to the air pollution in the city. “If you will burst firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in two nights, then what will happen to the air?” she asked, pointing out the obvious consequences of such actions. The sheer scale of firecracker usage during festivals is staggering, and it is imperative that we take a step back and assess the impact it has on our environment.
The BJP leader’s suggestion to brand those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national” may seem extreme, but it underscores the importance of taking collective responsibility for our actions. Gandhi’s statement is not just a call to action but also a reminder that our individual choices have a significant impact on the environment and the nation as a whole. By labeling those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national,” Gandhi is emphasizing that such actions are not only harmful to the environment but also detrimental to the well-being of the nation.
The issue of air pollution in New Delhi is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The city’s air quality has been consistently ranked as one of the worst in the world, and the bursting of firecrackers during festivals only exacerbates the problem. The pollutants released by firecrackers, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds, can have severe health implications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Moreover, the economic burden of air pollution cannot be ignored. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that air pollution costs India approximately $55 billion annually, with a significant portion of these costs attributed to the health impacts of poor air quality. By reducing our reliance on firecrackers and adopting more environmentally friendly alternatives, we can not only improve the air quality but also mitigate the economic burden associated with air pollution.
While some may argue that a ban on firecrackers is an overreach, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of such a move. Many cities around the world have successfully implemented similar bans, resulting in significant improvements in air quality. For instance, the city of Beijing implemented a ban on firecrackers during the Chinese New Year celebrations, which led to a substantial reduction in air pollution.
In addition to a ban on firecrackers, there are other measures that can be taken to reduce air pollution during festivals. For example, the use of eco-friendly firecrackers, which produce fewer emissions, can be promoted. Additionally, community-led initiatives, such as organizing firecracker-free festivals and promoting alternative celebrations, can help raise awareness and encourage behavioral change.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a timely reminder of the need to take collective action to address the issue of air pollution. By branding those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national,” Gandhi is emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and prioritizing the well-being of the nation. As we move forward, it is crucial that we adopt a multifaceted approach to address air pollution, including implementing bans on firecrackers, promoting eco-friendly alternatives, and encouraging community-led initiatives.
Ultimately, the decision to burst firecrackers or not is a personal choice, but it is essential to consider the broader implications of our actions. As we celebrate our festivals, let us remember that our individual choices have a significant impact on the environment and the nation as a whole. By making conscious choices and adopting more environmentally friendly practices, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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