Firecrackers being sold ‘openly’ in parts of city, take strict action against violators, Rai urges L-G 

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has written to the Lieutenant-Governor urging strict action against the sale and distribution of firecrackers ahead of Deepavali. Last year, air pollution levels in Delhi spiked drastically due to flouting of the ban on firecrackers. Despite the ban, firecrackers are being openly sold in city markets, brought in from neighboring states. The Minister emphasized the need for regular checks by the police to prevent deterioration of air quality. Additionally, civil defense volunteers will be deployed to combat air pollution and monitor violations of government guidelines. The BJP has also urged Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to take steps to curb farm fires, which contribute to Delhi’s air pollution.