The National Green Tribunal (NGT) today has sought the opinion of the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Central Pollution Control Board and other states on the issue of banning firecrackers from November 7 to 30 in a plea alleging that the increase in pollution may deteriorate the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Delhi.
A bench comprising Chairperson Justice Adarsh K. Goel, Justice Sheo Kumar Singh, Dr Satyawan Singh Garbyal and Dr Nagin Nanda noted that there are also expert views on the clear nexus of air pollution with Covid-19. With increased air pollution, the virus can cause more damage.
The plea further stated that Increased pollution may further affect the vulnerable groups and increase the fatality rate. Covid cases in Delhi may go up to 15,000 per day, as against the current cases of about 5,000 per day. The use of green crackers will not remedy the situation. The smoke will choke and may create a gas chamber like situation. It will lead to poor visibility, hazy conditions, and asphyxia.
The bench has listed the matter for further hearing on November 5.
