Amid soaring levels of toxic air in many cities, the government has urged people to restrict outdoor activities, such as sports and exercise, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, pregnant women, and those with existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
The Union Health Ministry has also asked states/UTs to strengthen the healthcare system to address the pressing issue of air pollution, which is expected to worsen during the festival season and with the onset of winter.
The Ministry has also encouraged the public to use public transport and avoid heavily congested areas.
In a letter to states/UTs, Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Atul Goel advised discouraging stubble and waste burning and spreading awareness about reducing firecracker use during festivities.
He also emphasised promoting public transportation, limiting reliance on diesel generators, and curbing fossil fuel smoking.
"Additionally, individuals should minimise their exposure to polluted air by monitoring air quality indices through government mobile applications before venturing outdoors, avoiding congested areas, and opting for cleaner fuels at home for cooking, heating, and lighting," Dr. Goel said in the letter written last week.
He pointed out that air pollution has recently become a serious health challenge, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in certain states/UTs reaching moderate to poor levels.
The states must scale up participation in sentinel surveillance systems for air pollution-related diseases under the National Program on Climate Change and Human Health, he added.
Terming the government steps as much-needed one, Dr. Shobha Gupta, gynecologist and IVF expert from Mother's Lap IVF Centre said Diwali celebrations can pose specific risks to pregnant women and those with respiratory sensitivities. Though firecrackers are banned in the city, violations continue to occur.
"Increased pollution levels from fireworks can aggravate respiratory conditions, negatively impacting both maternal and fetal health. Expectant mothers should avoid areas with heavy smoke or pollution given that fireworks release harmful chemicals like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter that can worsen asthma or cause respiratory distress."
"A pregnant woman should stay indoors as much as possible, and use air purifiers if needed," advised Dr. Gupta.
Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, Director of Manasthali Wellness, advised individuals with respiratory issues, allergies, or asthma to take precautions, as they are particularly vulnerable to air pollution from fireworks. "Diwali can be a time of excessive waste. Opt for eco-friendly decorations, such as clay diyas, which are biodegradable, or use LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs to save energy," she added.
While fireworks are banned in Delhi, they are still being sold in neighboring states where restrictions do not apply.
The Delhi government announced a ban on firecrackers on September 9, with Environment Minister Gopal Rai stating that all types of firecrackers, including green crackers, are prohibited from being sold, purchased, stocked, or manufactured in the capital. The formal notification of the ban was eventually issued on October 14.
