Stop Blaming Firecrackers Alone For Pollution, Take Action Against Stubble Burning Too: Brijesh Goyal

New Delhi: Amid the ongoing debate over firecrackers and worsening air pollution in Delhi during Diwali, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has raised concerns over what it describes as the selective targeting of firecrackers as the primary cause of pollution.

CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal has written to political parties, urging them to adopt a comprehensive approach towards tackling air pollution instead of placing the entire burden on the firecracker industry. He argued that imposing restrictions that threaten the livelihoods of traders is not a sustainable solution.

Goyal questioned how Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached between 350 and 400 on November 5, 6 and 7, when firecrackers were not used on those days. He asked authorities to examine the other sources responsible for such high pollution levels.

According to him, the seasonal rise in pollution between October and January requires a serious assessment of stubble burning, vehicular emissions and other contributing factors.

Why is CTI opposing blanket restrictions on firecrackers?

CTI estimates that nearly 10 lakh families across the country depend on the firecracker trade for their livelihoods. Small traders invest their savings throughout the year and rely heavily on the short Diwali sales period to recover their investments and earn profits.

Goyal said sudden restrictions affect their businesses, investments and employment opportunities. He supported the use of green firecrackers, regulated timings and limited celebrations as a more balanced approach.

He also emphasised that children's happiness and traditional festive celebrations should be considered while framing environmental restrictions. Questioning the consistency of such measures, he asked why restrictions related to environmental concerns appeared to disproportionately affect Hindu festivals and stressed that laws should be applied equally to everyone.

Can banning firecrackers alone guarantee cleaner air?

Goyal challenged authorities to guarantee that Delhi's AQI would remain below 300 until January if firecrackers were completely banned. He argued that pollution control measures must address all major sources rather than focusing on a single activity.

The CTI chairman called for scientific and effective action against stubble burning, vehicular pollution and other emission sources.

The organisation maintains that Delhi needs a long-term strategy that protects public health while also safeguarding traders' livelihoods and allowing people to celebrate festivals responsibly.