Green Diwali in Bengaluru: Balancing tradition with eco-friendly practices

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the biggest and most important festivals in Bengaluru. It is a time for celebration, family, and friends.

However, the festival can also hurt the environment, due to the use of several fireworks and other pollutants.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to celebrate Diwali in a more eco-friendly way. This has led to an increase in the sale of green crackers, which are less polluting than traditional crackers.

Air quality and noise pollution data According to the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), the air quality in Bengaluru deteriorates sharply during Diwali.

In 2022, the PM2.5 (particulate matter) levels in the city increased by over 500% on Diwali night. Noise pollution also increases significantly during the festival, with levels often exceeding the permissible limits.

Sale of green crackers and traditional crackers

The sale of green crackers has increased in the city in recent years. In 2022, the sale of green crackers increased by over 20% compared to the previous year.

However, the sale of traditional crackers is still significantly higher. In 2022, the sale of traditional crackers was over 10 times higher than the sale of green crackers.

Green crackers produce less noise than traditional crackers. Roshaan Ray the founder of seed paper India, a sustainable organisation that manufactures seed paper products urged the public to be aware of the environmental consequences that crackers can cause.

He said, “If we completely ban crackers, we will soon have a generation that won't even know the feeling of bursting crackers, that is why I came up with this solution.''

The crackers manufactured by seed paper India are made chemical-free and have seeds that grow into plants after the explosion. The crackers also use natural food colours to make the colours in the crackers.

Awareness

While Roshan Ray agrees that there is enough awareness about the consequences of crackers, especially among teenagers, there is still a long way to go when it comes to awareness about green crackers and sustainable crackers.

He said, “While one is lighting a cracker, it is important to think about the consequences the world will face post that," emphasising the need for individuals to consider the broader implications of their actions, particularly in the context of celebrating events like Diwali with firecrackers.

He also encouraged individuals to celebrate responsibly and mindfully.” Rules and regulations The Supreme Court of India has permitted the use of green firecrackers only, strictly between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Diwali, while banning the sale and use of all other types.

The court has further ordered authorities to monitor air and noise pollution levels seven days before and post Diwali.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has enforced the Supreme Court's directive via a circular, involving the police, education department, fire department, and district authorities in ensuring compliance.

Additionally, BBMP has imposed its regulations, including prohibiting high-decibel fireworks, setting a specific time frame, and restricting firecrackers near sensitive locations such as hospitals and schools.

The BBMP has also designated 70 playgrounds for the establishment of 426 tempoary firework shops during Diwali.