Those bursting crackers should be called ‘anti-national’: Maneka
As the festive season approaches, the debate around firecrackers and their impact on the environment has once again gained momentum. BJP leader Maneka Gandhi has weighed in on the issue, calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers and labeling those who burst them as “anti-national”. In a strongly worded statement, Gandhi emphasized the need to take drastic measures to curb air pollution in New Delhi, which she believes is largely caused by the bursting of firecrackers.
Gandhi’s comments come at a time when the national capital is struggling to cope with hazardous levels of air pollution. The city’s air quality has been deteriorating over the years, and the situation becomes particularly grim during the festive season when firecrackers are burst in large numbers. According to Gandhi, the scale of firecracker bursting is staggering, with ₹800 crore worth of firecrackers being burst in just two nights. The environmental impact of such large-scale firecracker bursting is devastating, and Gandhi is right in pointing out that it is having a disastrous effect on the air quality.
The issue of air pollution in New Delhi is a complex one, and there are multiple factors contributing to it. However, the bursting of firecrackers is undoubtedly a significant contributor to the problem. The smoke and particulate matter emitted by firecrackers can cause serious health problems, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. Moreover, the noise pollution caused by firecrackers can also have a debilitating impact on both humans and animals.
Gandhi’s suggestion that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” may seem extreme, but it highlights the gravity of the situation. The fact that people are willing to compromise the health and well-being of their fellow citizens and the environment for the sake of a few moments of celebration is indeed a matter of concern. It is time for people to realize that their actions have consequences and that they need to take responsibility for their behavior.
A nationwide ban on firecrackers is not an unrealistic solution, and it has been implemented in several other countries. In fact, many cities in India have already banned the sale and use of firecrackers, and the results have been encouraging. For instance, the city of Delhi had banned the sale and use of firecrackers in 2017, and the air quality had shown a significant improvement during the festive season.
However, implementing a nationwide ban on firecrackers will require a concerted effort from the government, civil society, and individuals. It will require a change in mindset and a willingness to adapt to new ways of celebrating festivals. It will also require the government to provide alternative employment opportunities to those who are engaged in the firecracker industry.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a timely reminder of the need to take urgent action to address the issue of air pollution in New Delhi. The bursting of firecrackers is a significant contributor to the problem, and it is time for people to take responsibility for their actions. By labeling those who burst firecrackers as “anti-national”, Gandhi has highlighted the gravity of the situation and the need for people to think about the consequences of their behavior. As we move forward, it is essential that we work together to find solutions to this complex problem and create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.
News source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516