Curbs on Fireworks Binding on all States: SC

Relevance: GS3 – Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Air Pollution, Noise Pollution, Role of the judiciary, Causes/Sources of Pollution & Degradation, Prevention & Control of Pollution & Degradation, National Environment Agencies, Legislations and Policies

Primary Source: The Hindu

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Why in the news?

The Supreme Court of India has stated that its directives to reduce air and noise pollution from firecrackers are applicable to all states, not just the Delhi National Capital Region, especially with the approach of Deepavali.

Contextual Background

• Diwali celebrations have historically been linked to significant increases in air and noise pollution, especially in urban areas like the Delhi National Capital Region, due to the widespread use of firecrackers.
• The Supreme Court has previously issued orders aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of firecrackers. These orders were initially perceived to be specifically targeting the Delhi NCR region, which faces acute air pollution problems.
• The Supreme Court clarified that its orders to minimize pollution are not limited to the Delhi NCR but are binding on all states across India.
• The court's clarification comes just days before Deepavali, suggesting an urgent need to reinforce the rules to prevent a surge in pollution during the festival.

Supreme Court's Observations

• Celebration vs. Environment: Justice M.M. Sundresh, has expressed that while celebrations are important, they should not come at the cost of environmental health. This indicates a clear stance that the joy of festivities cannot override the need for environmental conservation.
• Awareness and Behavior: Justice A.S. Bopanna pointed out the paradox in awareness levels between children and adults. He noted that despite children being more aware and restrained due to education, adults tend to engage more in bursting crackers without considering the pollution they cause.
• Circumventing Restrictions: The court observed that given a time limit, like 10:30 p.m., people rush to burst all their crackers beforehand, focusing on using up their stock rather than adhering to the spirit of the restriction.
• Importance of Sensitization: The court underlined the need for sensitizing the population about the importance of reducing fireworks to mitigate pollution. This suggests a push for public education and consciousness-raising efforts.
• Hope for Improved Consciousness: Reflecting a positive outlook, the court, through Justice Sundresh's remark "We live on hope," implies an expectation that societal attitudes towards environmental protection will improve.

Major Chemicals/Pollutants Used in Fireworks

Responsibilities of Individuals

• Awareness and Education: Individuals should educate themselves and others about the harmful effects of firecrackers on air quality and noise levels.
• Moderation: Celebrations can occur but should be with moderation. Individuals should limit the use of firecrackers or opt for eco-friendly alternatives that are less harmful to the environment.
• Compliance with Time Restrictions: Respecting and adhering to the time restrictions set by authorities for bursting firecrackers can greatly reduce noise pollution and its associated discomforts.
• Collective Action: Cultivating a collective consciousness about the environment by encouraging communities to celebrate with fewer or no firecrackers.
• Public Campaigns and Petitions: Participate in or initiate campaigns that support the ban or limitation of firecrackers, and sign petitions that advocate for environmentally friendly practices.
• Reporting Violations: If there are clear violations of the restrictions imposed by the court, individuals should report them to the authorities for appropriate action.
• Personal Responsibility: Taking personal responsibility for one's actions and their impact on the environment, understanding that environmental protection is not solely the government's responsibility.

Responsibilities of Government

• Enforcement: Enforcing the Supreme Court's orders strictly and ensuring that violators are penalized.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Organizing awareness campaigns through various media to educate the public about the harmful effects of firecrackers and promoting alternative ways to celebrate festivals.
• Policy Implementation: Creating and implementing policies that regulate the production, sale, and use of firecrackers, possibly incentivizing the manufacture and purchase of green crackers or other eco-friendly alternatives.
• Research and Development: Supporting the development of less polluting firecrackers or alternative celebration tools through research funding and subsidies.
• Setting and Monitoring Quality Standards: Establishing and monitoring standards for permissible noise and emission levels for firecrackers.
• Infrastructure for Monitoring: Developing infrastructure to continuously monitor air and noise pollution levels, especially during festive seasons.
• Healthcare Preparedness: Ensuring the healthcare system is prepared for any spike in respiratory and other health issues that may arise due to increased pollution.
• Legal Framework: Crafting a robust legal framework that empowers local authorities to act decisively and ensures accountability.
• Inter-departmental Coordination: Coordinating between various departments and levels of government to enforce rules effectively.
• Community Engagement: Engaging with community leaders and groups to promote compliance with pollution-curbing measures at the grassroots level.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court's orders are binding for all states, emphasizing the inclusive responsibility for environmental conservation. It highlights that states should enforce measures to curb pollution year-round, not just during festive seasons.

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FAQs

MCQs

Question: In the context of WHO consider the Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)

1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 ug/m³ and annual mean of PM 2.5 should not exceed 5 μg/m³.
2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather.
3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.
4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 3 and 4

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 2 only

Question:  How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)? (UPSC 2018)

1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2