Diwali Fireworks in Delhi: A Tradition Diminished by Pollution Regulations
For many years, fireworks were an integral part of Diwali celebrations in and around Delhi, crafted by family-run businesses in towns like Farukh Nagar. However, government efforts to combat severe air pollution have led to the decline of this traditional industry, significantly impacting the livelihoods of those who depended on it.
The small factories in Farukh Nagar, located just outside the bustling capital, were once vibrant hubs of pyrotechnic creativity. Generations of artisans honed their skills to produce a dazzling variety of fireworks, from ground-level bomblets to aerial displays that lit up the night sky. Popular items included the “flower pots,” which erupted into colorful cascades, captivating those who watched.
Today, the once-bustling workshops are silent, their storefronts abandoned. The vibrant production of fireworks has come to a halt, a consequence of strict government regulations aimed at addressing the air quality crisis in the region. The timing of this crackdown is particularly poignant, as Diwali approaches—a festival renowned not only for its festivities and family gatherings but also for the explosive celebrations marked by fireworks.
Mohammed Hamid, a former fireworks manufacturer, laments the loss of his family’s legacy. His family operated a firework factory for generations, creating a once lively atmosphere during Diwali celebrations. “It used to be so lively and beautiful,” he recalls, now reflecting on a time when Farukh Nagar was a hub for vibrant Diwali celebrations.
The air quality in New Delhi has been a persistent issue, often reaching “very poor” levels, especially during the Diwali festival. The combination of seasonal factors, such as stagnant winds and cooler temperatures, exacerbates pollution levels, leading to health issues for residents, including respiratory problems. On particularly bad days, air quality indexes have soared to alarming levels, contributing to the city’s ongoing struggle with smog.
Efforts to curb pollution have zeroed in on the firecrackers traditionally associated with Diwali celebrations. Government authorities have imposed bans on the sale and production of traditional fireworks in the capital, although demand persists. Many residents still travel to Farukh Nagar to buy fireworks, despite the regulations. The manufacturing of conventional firecrackers was halted entirely in 2016 due to concerns about pollution, though some shops continue to sell “eco-friendly” alternatives that produce less smoke.
Some experts question the efficacy of the firecracker ban. While it may address the immediate issue of pollution during the Diwali festivities, the overall impact is short-lived, with pollutants from various other sources contributing to the city’s air quality woes. Agricultural burning in nearby states and vehicular emissions remain significant contributors to pollution levels.
Despite recognizing the pollutants generated by traditional firecrackers, Hamid argues that the government should work collaboratively with manufacturers to find solutions rather than imposing outright bans. He believes that the industry could adapt to produce less harmful alternatives if given the chance.
Once thriving, the community of firework manufacturers in Farukh Nagar has been drastically reduced. Many families like Hamid’s have had their manufacturing licenses revoked, forcing them to seek alternative livelihoods. Hamid now operates a small clothing store, a far cry from the family business that once thrived during the Diwali season.
At its peak, Farukh Nagar was home to nearly 400 fireworks stores, catering to the celebratory needs of Delhi’s population. However, as traditional manufacturers shut down, a new wave of shops emerged, focusing on less polluting, primarily imported fireworks. These shops are often busy during the Diwali season, with customers flocking to purchase what remains of the fireworks tradition.
Rajiv Jain, a newer shop owner, expresses frustration over the government’s crackdown on traditional firecrackers. He notes that while pollution is a valid concern, it feels disproportionate to ban the fireworks that many enjoy for only a few hours during the festival. “Everybody freaks out about pollution,” he states, underscoring the tension between cultural practices and environmental concerns.
Despite the ongoing debates around firecracker bans, the reality remains that New Delhi is facing a complex pollution challenge. Experts acknowledge that the city has multiple sources of pollution, complicating the fight against air quality deterioration. The hostile weather conditions, especially during Diwali, exacerbate the pollution crisis, prompting officials to implement additional measures, including the closure of schools and construction sites during peak pollution periods.
Safety concerns surrounding fireworks are also prevalent. Every Diwali, reports of accidents and explosions at firework manufacturing sites or during celebratory events emerge. High-profile incidents have resulted in injuries and fatalities, reinforcing the government’s resolve to impose stricter regulations on the industry.
Individuals like Mohammed Naim, who also come from a family of firework makers, express sadness over the loss of a craft that has been passed down through generations. The ban has stripped the Atishbaz community of their livelihood, forcing many into menial labor instead of continuing the family legacy. Naim laments the loss of a once-thriving industry that supported numerous families.
the ban on traditional firecrackers in Delhi highlights the struggle to balance cultural heritage with environmental responsibility. The vibrant tradition of Diwali fireworks, once a source of joy and celebration, faces significant challenges due to increasing air pollution concerns and government regulations. As families like Hamid’s and Naim’s adapt to a new reality, the future of Diwali fireworks remains uncertain, caught between the legacy of their craftsmanship and the pressing need for cleaner air.
