Clean Diwali: Awareness rises, pollution level dips

This despite claims by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) that there has been a decline in pollution levels because of several initiatives taken by it. K C Mistry, Regional Officer, GPCB, Ahmedabad, said: “Pollution levels are definitely going down with increased public awareness and participation. There are reports of firecracker sales reaching an all time low.” He said a reason for this drop has been that more and more schools, residential societies, social organisations and environment activists are advocating a pollution-free Diwali.

The most air polluting substances during the festive season are the oxides of nitrogen, sulphur dioxide and the particulate matter. GPCB has said that the permissible levels are 80 microgram per nanometre cube.

Mistry said the 17 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations spread across the city will continuously monitor the level. The GPCB will also spread awareness about ‘firework pooling’.

“People resort to car pools to save fuel and reduce pollution. Similarly people from one residential complexes pooling together for firecrackers and enjoying them at a common place should be encouraged,” he added.

Taking note of the Supreme Court norm about the permissible level of sound pollution, the GPCB is all set to ensure the 125 decibel (db) at 4 metres from the point of bursting crackers. Last year, 114 db was recorded and this year the GPCB plans to carry out random checks to in this regard.

Some Dos

* Ensure adult supervision when children burst firecrackers

* Fireworks should be used only on an empty ground with no combustible or inflammable material around

* Use a candle or agarbatti to light firecrackers

* Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby to prevent any untoward incident

* Aerial fireworks should be used only on open landing areas

* Only one person should light one firework at a time. Others should watch it from a safe distance

* In case of major burns, after extinguishing the fire, remove all smouldering clothes. Wrap the victim in a clean bed sheet

Some Dont’s

* Do not tie electric lights to metal poles

* Do not keep the fireworks in the open. Keep it away from the reach of children, animals and any heat source

* Avoid wearing silk or clothes made of inflammable materials

* Don’t play with fireworks

* Don’t light aerial fireworks if there is heavy wind

* Don’t ignite fireworks in any container

* Don’t wear loosely hanging clothes; secure all clothes properly