As per UN reports, air pollution is considered to be the world’s largest environmental health threat, accounting for 7 million deaths around the world every year.1 Exposure to air pollution is a more important risk factor for major non-communicable diseases than was previously thought. 9 out of 10 people breathe air containing high levels of pollutants.
Traditionally, Diwali is celebrated with diyas, rangoli, sweets, by illuminating homes, by meeting friends and family. People wear their best clothes and finery and a fun filled laughter marks the festival. In recent decades however the use of deafening firecrackers has led to air pollution and suffocating smoke which pollutes the environment.
Every hour of fireworks increases pollution by 50%. Crackers create 140 decibels of noise which are a nightmare for pets, cause skin hazards, and add so much to global warming.
Garden Society in Kompally, Secunderabad has been a cracker free zone for the past two years. In 2017, an initiative by the Jamati institutions and the Garden Maintenance Committee led to Green Diwali celebrations where the ethic of charity was emphasized. Various art pieces were displayed along with a contribution box and the jamat was encouraged to contribute for a good cause, the money, that they would have otherwise spent on buying crackers.
Last year's Green Diwali celebrations were in the form of a 'Diwali Mela'. A joint initiative by the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, Scouts and Guides Kompally, Care committee and Garden Society Maintenance Committee, Diwali celebrations included a pledge taken by the residents of the society for a cracker free Diwali. An awareness rally on saving the environment was held in the neighbourhood followed by a night full of entertainment. The Diwali Mela included food stalls of various cuisines, entertainment stalls, games & fun stalls for children, a stand up comedy performance and of course our favourite, Raas and garba dance.
Residents of Garden Society in their own little way contributed to the betterment of the environment!
Let us pledge to fill our homes with lights and flowers and celebrate Diwali and other festivals each year by contributing to happiness, contentment, peace, hope, good health and clean environment.
