Fireworks cause pollution, hospitalisations across India during Diwali

Widespread fireworks during Diwali and Kali Puja, despite restrictions, have worsened air pollution in several Indian cities, particularly Kolkata and Delhi, leaving many people suffering from eye irritation and breathing difficulties.

Hospitals reported patients seeking treatment for respiratory problems and burns, while fireworks and oil lamps triggered several fires. A 10-year-old boy was also killed in a fireworks accident in Delhi.

In Kolkata, loud fireworks continued throughout Kali Puja night, disturbing residents, particularly elderly people. Environmental groups blamed alleged police inaction for the widespread use of banned and high-decibel firecrackers.

However, Kolkata Police headquarters at Lalbazar rejected allegations of inaction, describing them as baseless.

According to police figures, 205 people were arrested for illegally bursting firecrackers during Kali Puja night, compared with 183 last year. Police also seized 238 kg of illegal fireworks, down from 852.45 kg last year.

Another 387 people were arrested over disorderly conduct and unruly behaviour during the celebrations.

Despite the police operations, several parts of Kolkata recorded noise and air pollution levels above legal limits.

Delhi also experienced severe air pollution after widespread firecracker use on Diwali night, despite restrictions. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached the 'severe' category, while thick smog covered the capital by morning.

In Kolkata, AQI readings in several areas exceeded 500 during the night.

Environmental experts said toxic chemicals released by fireworks, combined with increased atmospheric moisture at the beginning of winter, caused harmful particles to remain close to the ground, worsening air quality.

The celebrations also turned tragic in Delhi's Narela area, where 10-year-old Rishi died in a fireworks accident.

The boy was bursting firecrackers with family members when one firework failed to launch into the air and exploded against his chest. He was taken to hospital with severe burn injuries but was declared dead by doctors.

Several other people across India were admitted to hospital emergency departments with burn injuries caused by fireworks.

Three houses in Kolkata and Medinipur caught fire due to Diwali lamps and firecrackers. At least four shops were also gutted in fires in Kolkata.

In addition, fires were reported at a multi-storey building in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, and at least 11 locations across Delhi and Mumbai.

sks