India: Extreme air pollution possible in capital in October (Diwali)

Event

India’s Supreme Court banned the sale of fireworks in the capital New Delhi between October 9 and November 1 in the run-up to the Hindu festival of Diwali, which falls on October 18 this year. The ban, initially ordered in November 2016 after last year’s Diwali, was temporarily lifted in September before being restored. Those who already bought fireworks will be allowed to set them off.

The ban will test whether banning fireworks has an impact on Delhi’s air quality. In 2016, air pollution across the country reached alarmingly high levels after Diwali, with the quantity of fine pollution particles (PM2.5) in the air more than 15 times higher than the safe limits. Choking smog caused in large part by the fireworks forced the Delhi government to close schools for three days due to health hazards.

In past years campaigns asking people to use fewer fireworks during Diwali have not been successful. High levels of pollution are expected during Diwali in the capital and elsewhere in the country despite the ban.

Context

PM2.5 are fine particles that can cause short-term health effects such as eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation, as well as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath.

Advice

Due to health risks associated with severe air pollution, it is advisable to limit outdoor activities, especially intense physical exertion. Pollution can particularly affect vulnerable individuals - e.g. children, seniors, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from asthma and other respiratory issues. If you experience difficulty breathing, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, particularly if new symptoms appear (cough, sore throat, irritated eyes).