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 gained momentum. In a recent statement, BJP leader Maneka Gandhi has called for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, citing the severe air pollution in New Delhi as the primary reason. According to Gandhi, the bursting of firecrackers is the main contributor to the deteriorating air quality in the national capital, and those responsible should be labeled as “anti-national”.
Gandhi’s statement comes at a time when the air quality in New Delhi has been consistently poor, with the city’s residents struggling to breathe due to the high levels of pollutants in the air. The situation is particularly dire during the festive season, when the bursting of firecrackers becomes a major contributor to the already poor air quality. The BJP leader’s comments have sparked a heated debate, with many agreeing that the time has come to take drastic measures to address the issue of air pollution in the city.
The statistics are alarming, with firecrackers worth ₹800 crore being burst in just two nights, leading to a significant spike in air pollution levels. The question posed by Gandhi – “If you will burst firecrackers worth ₹800 crore in two nights, then what will happen to the air?” – is a pertinent one, highlighting the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of firecracker pollution. The sheer scale of firecracker bursting during the festive season is staggering, and it is clear that the environmental impact is severe.
Gandhi’s suggestion that those who burst firecrackers should be branded as “anti-national” may seem extreme, but it highlights the seriousness of the issue. The term “anti-national” is typically associated with activities that are deemed to be against the interests of the nation, and in this context, Gandhi is implying that the bursting of firecrackers is a threat to the health and well-being of the nation’s citizens. While some may argue that this is an exaggeration, it is undeniable that the air pollution caused by firecrackers has severe consequences for public health.
The impact of air pollution on human health is well-documented, with studies showing that exposure to poor air quality can lead to a range of health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. The elderly, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, and the bursting of firecrackers only serves to exacerbate the problem. In this context, Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a timely one, and it is essential that policymakers take heed of her warnings.
Of course, there are those who will argue that a ban on firecrackers is an overreaction, and that the festive season would be incomplete without the traditional bursting of crackers. However, it is essential to weigh the cultural and social significance of firecrackers against the very real health risks that they pose. As Gandhi pointed out, the air quality in New Delhi is already poor, and the bursting of firecrackers only serves to make it worse. In this context, it is clear that the need to protect public health must take precedence over cultural traditions.
In recent years, there have been efforts to promote eco-friendly alternatives to traditional firecrackers, such as green crackers that produce fewer emissions. While these alternatives are a step in the right direction, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive ban on firecrackers. The fact remains that even eco-friendly firecrackers produce some level of pollution, and it is essential that we take a more radical approach to addressing the problem.
Ultimately, the decision to ban firecrackers will require a concerted effort from policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and the general public. It will not be an easy task, and there will undoubtedly be those who resist the change. However, as Gandhi’s comments make clear, the stakes are high, and the need for action is urgent. As we approach the festive season, it is essential that we prioritize the health and well-being of our citizens and take concrete steps to address the scourge of air pollution.
In conclusion, Maneka Gandhi’s call for a nationwide ban on firecrackers is a timely and necessary one. The bursting of firecrackers is a significant contributor to air pollution in New Delhi, and it is essential that we take drastic measures to mitigate the effects. While some may argue that a ban is an overreaction, the fact remains that the health risks posed by firecrackers are very real, and it is our responsibility to protect the well-being of our citizens. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the need for clean air and take concrete steps to address the problem of air pollution.
News Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/05dfed30-2874-4e50-8c78-37383df29516
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