Delhi's Diwali Dilemma: Unpacking the Promise and Peril of Green Crackers

As the festive fervor of Diwali approaches, Delhi once again finds itself at the crossroads of celebration and environmental concern. The air, already a challenge for residents, typically worsens dramatically post-Diwali due to the widespread use of firecrackers. In a bid to mitigate this annual crisis, the focus has firmly landed on 'green crackers' – touted as an eco-friendlier alternative.

But what exactly are these green crackers, and can they truly be the salvation Delhi desperately seeks?

The concept of green crackers emerged from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in 2018, specifically through its National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI).

Unlike traditional firecrackers that are rich in pollutants like barium nitrate, green crackers are designed to reduce air pollution by minimizing the emission of harmful gases and particulate matter. They achieve this by replacing banned chemicals with less harmful alternatives and incorporating dust suppressants.

However, it's crucial to understand that 'green' doesn't mean pollution-free; it implies a reduced environmental impact – typically by 30-35% fewer emissions compared to conventional crackers.

Two primary types of green crackers developed by CSIR-NEERI are gaining prominence: 'SAFAL' (Safe Minimal Aluminium) and 'STAR' (Safe Thermite Cracker).

SAFAL crackers, for instance, use aluminium powder but in minimal quantities, along with other alternative ingredients. STAR crackers, on the other hand, eliminate potassium nitrate and sulfur, relying on a safer thermite composition. These innovations aim to lessen the release of nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter (PM) into the atmosphere.

Despite their promising label, green crackers are not without their skeptics and concerns.

Environmental experts and activists often point out that while they are 'less polluting,' they still contribute to air pollution. The very act of combustion, regardless of the ingredients, releases fine particulate matter and gases. Moreover, a significant challenge lies in distinguishing genuine green crackers from their conventional counterparts.

The market is often flooded with mislabeled products, making effective regulation and enforcement a formidable task for authorities like the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).

Public awareness and compliance also play a critical role. Many consumers remain unaware of the differences or the potential health impacts, often prioritizing traditional celebrations over environmental considerations.

The Supreme Court has repeatedly emphasized the need for responsible cracker use, and various state governments, including Delhi's, have implemented measures ranging from outright bans on all firecrackers to promoting only green variants. Yet, the persistent smog that often blankets Delhi post-Diwali serves as a grim reminder of the challenges.

For Diwali 2023, Delhi is once again pinning its hopes on green crackers.

The success of this strategy hinges on rigorous enforcement, widespread public education, and the availability of certified products. While green crackers offer a glimmer of hope for a slightly cleaner festive season, they are merely a part of the solution. A sustainable approach to tackling Delhi's air pollution demands year-round efforts, encompassing vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, crop stubble burning, and waste management.

The Diwali air quality will ultimately be a litmus test not just for green crackers, but for the collective will of the city to breathe easier.