Those bursting crackers should be called ‘anti-national’: Maneka
As the festive season is around the corner, the debate on firecrackers has once again gained momentum. The air pollution in New Delhi has been a major concern, and the prime reason behind it has been the bursting of firecrackers. BJP leader Maneka Gandhi has called for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, stating that the amount of pollution caused by them is alarming. She added that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” due to the harm they cause to the environment and the people.
Gandhi’s statement comes at a time when the pollution levels in New Delhi are at an all-time high. The city has been experiencing severe air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) often crossing the hazardous mark. The situation is so dire that the government has been forced to take measures such as odd-even traffic rules and closure of schools to mitigate the problem. However, despite these efforts, the pollution levels remain high, and the bursting of firecrackers has been identified as one of the major contributors to the problem.
The amount of firecrackers burst during the festive season is staggering. According to estimates, firecrackers worth ₹800 crore are burst in just two nights. This amount of pollution is not only harmful to the environment but also has severe health implications for the people. The toxic fumes emitted by the firecrackers can cause respiratory problems, and the noise pollution can lead to hearing loss and other health issues. Gandhi’s statement that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” may seem harsh, but it highlights the gravity of the situation.
The ban on firecrackers is not a new concept. Many countries have already banned the use of firecrackers due to the pollution and noise they cause. In India, the Supreme Court has also taken notice of the issue and has imposed restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers. However, despite these efforts, the problem persists. The lack of awareness and the cultural significance of firecrackers during the festive season make it difficult to enforce a complete ban.
Gandhi’s statement has sparked a debate on the issue, with many people supporting her call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers. However, there are also those who oppose the idea, citing the cultural and economic implications of such a ban. The firecracker industry is a significant contributor to the economy, and a ban on firecrackers could lead to job losses and economic hardship for many people.
While the debate on firecrackers continues, it is essential to consider the environmental and health implications of bursting firecrackers. The pollution caused by firecrackers is not limited to the festive season; it has a long-term impact on the environment and the people. The toxic fumes emitted by the firecrackers can linger in the air for days, causing health problems for people with respiratory issues. Moreover, the pollution caused by firecrackers also affects the wildlife, causing harm to birds and other animals.
In addition to the environmental and health implications, the bursting of firecrackers also has a significant economic impact. The cost of treating health problems caused by air pollution is staggering, and the economic burden of pollution-related illnesses is a significant concern. Moreover, the pollution caused by firecrackers also affects the tourism industry, as people are deterred from visiting polluted cities.
To address the issue of firecrackers, it is essential to take a multi-faceted approach. While a ban on firecrackers may seem like a radical solution, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of such a move. The government can also promote eco-friendly alternatives to firecrackers, such as green firecrackers or laser shows. Moreover, awareness campaigns can be launched to educate people about the harmful effects of firecrackers and the importance of celebrating festivals in an environmentally friendly manner.
In conclusion, the issue of firecrackers is a complex one, and there are no easy solutions. However, it is essential to consider the environmental and health implications of bursting firecrackers and to take measures to mitigate the problem. Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers may seem harsh, but it highlights the gravity of the situation. As we celebrate the festive season, it is essential to remember that our actions have consequences, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our celebrations do not harm the environment and the people.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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