By Prof Kamal K Pande
The morning after Deepawali often presents two contrasting pictures. Streets are filled with burnt paper, cardboard, plastic and firecracker debris, while the air carries the lingering smell of smoke. The large-scale use of fireworks brings short-lived happiness, but it also seriously affects four major aspects of the environment—air, water, soil and noise levels—creating significant ecological and public-health risks.
In terms of air pollution, the Air Quality Index (AQI) often rises sharply on Deepawali night and in the following days. Burning firecrackers releases PM2.5 and PM10, with concentrations sometimes reported to rise 10 to 20 times above safe limits. Gases such as sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and carbon monoxide (CO) contribute to dense smog. Airborne metallic particles containing barium, aluminium and lead can enter the respiratory system, reach the lungs and bloodstream, and aggravate asthma, bronchitis and cardiovascular conditions.
Water pollution is another serious consequence. Chemical residues released during combustion, along with firecracker waste left on the ground, can enter nearby water bodies. Potassium and sodium perchlorates used in some fireworks may dissolve in rainwater and surface runoff, potentially contaminating rivers, ponds and drinking-water sources. Significant exposure to perchlorate can interfere with iodine uptake by the thyroid gland and affect normal thyroid function. Compounds containing copper and barium may also pose risks to aquatic organisms.
In the case of soil pollution, ash and chemical residues are deposited directly on the ground. Elements used to produce colours and visual effects—including barium (green), strontium (red), copper (blue) and chromium—may accumulate in the upper layers of soil. Certain metallic contaminants persist in the environment and can affect soil pH, beneficial microorganisms and overall soil health. Under particular conditions, they may migrate into groundwater or be absorbed by plants, potentially entering the food chain. Long-term exposure to toxic metals is associated with kidney damage and some forms of cancer.
With regard to noise pollution, loud explosions suddenly turn peaceful nights into extremely noisy environments. Such intense exposure can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage, increased blood pressure and sleep disturbances. It can also create fear, panic and behavioural disturbances among animals, particularly dogs and birds.
Thus, the damage caused by fireworks creates a lasting burden on the environment, public health and the economy in exchange for just a few hours of enjoyment. Although the industry generates revenue and provides jobs to millions of families, its economic benefits must be balanced against the health and environmental costs of pollution. The aim should not be to destroy livelihoods but to make the industry safer and more sustainable through cleaner technologies and low-pollution alternatives.
In this regard, the Supreme Court permitted only approved green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR on November 7–8, 2026, between 6:00–7:00 a.m. and 8:00–10:00 pm. Their use is prohibited within 300 metres of hospitals, educational institutions, old-age homes and designated silence zones to protect public health and reduce pollution. Only manufacturers holding valid Green Crackers certification from CSIR-NEERI and PESO may manufacture products listed on the CSIR-NEERI website during November 2–6, 2026.
As directed by the Supreme Court, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), in coordination with the State Pollution Control Boards and their regional offices, were to regularly monitor the AQI across all concerned districts of Delhi-NCR. Daily reports were to be prepared for three periods: pre-Diwali (November 2–6), during Diwali (November 7–8) and post-Diwali (November 9–30). In addition, sand and water samples will be collected from various locations to assess the environmental impact of firecrackers.
Outside Delhi-NCR, restrictions depend on local air quality and applicable government or court orders. The use of certified green crackers, permitted timings of 8:00–10:00 pm, restrictions around sensitive zones and rules on online sales are subject to the relevant local regulations.
Diwali has transformed over centuries from an ancient religious and cultural festival into a grand celebration marked by the spectacular use of fireworks, reflecting India’s changing customs and rich cultural heritage. Although its exact origin remains unknown, the Kamasutra (150–300 CE) mentions a festival called Yaksha Ratri, which some scholars associate with an early form of Diwali. Fireworks, meanwhile, were used in India by the 15th century. In 1443, Abdur Razzaq, an ambassador of Timurid ruler Shah Rukh, recorded their use during the Mahanavami festival under King Devaraya II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Deepawali is not merely a religious festival celebrated with firecrackers; it reflects India’s multicultural heritage, tolerance, hard work and the triumph of truth. The return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and the Pandavas’ return after completing their exile and period of incognito life remind us that patience, perseverance and commitment to truth ultimately lead to the triumph of righteousness over injustice. Lord Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura and liberation of 16,000 women symbolise the struggle for justice and the protection of the oppressed. The emergence of Goddess Lakshmi during the long churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) signifies that lasting prosperity is associated with hard work and purity.
In Jainism, Diwali marks Lord Mahavira’s Nirvana at Pawapuri, symbolising non-violence and spiritual enlightenment. In some Buddhist traditions, it is associated with Gautama Buddha’s return to Kapilavastu and Emperor Ashoka’s adoption of Buddhism, representing wisdom and the pursuit of truth. In Sikhism, Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji’s release from Gwalior Fort along with 52 kings, symbolising courage, freedom and justice.
Ultimately, the true spirit of Deepawali lies not merely in the brightness of fireworks but in the light of the values they are meant to symbolise. Every earthen lamp reminds us that truth, justice, knowledge and righteousness can overcome darkness and injustice.
(The author is former Director, Higher Education, Uttarakhand.)
