Environment Min Asks Scientists to Invent Zero-Pollution Crackers

Speaking at the “Run for Clean Air” event, Vardhan said this was done to find a solution that makes everyone happy.

Representational image. The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr Harsh Vardhan launching the ‘Harit Diwali, Swasth Diwali’ campaign, in New Delhi on 17 August 2017. 

(Courtesy: PIB)

Environment Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has asked Indian scientists to create zero-pollution crackers, so that people are able to enjoy Diwali without the harmful impact of crackers on the environment.

At the India International Science festival, we told our scientists to create zero-pollution crackers in future so that they don’t adversely impact the health of people, as well as the business of traders. We can find a solution to keep everyone happy so that everyone is able to celebrate Diwali with a lot of joy, and children can enjoy their crackers also.

Harsh Vardhan, speaking to ANI, at the “Run for Clean Air” mini-marathon at India Gate

Notably, the national capital has not responded positively to the Supreme Court's ban on the sale of firecrackers in New Delhi and adjoining regions. The order issued on 9 October has not only upset the Delhi residents, but also affected the business of traders

Speaking at the mini marathon, “Run for Clean Air”, Vardhan said:

We are celebrating the ‘Run for clean air’ marathon programme on the birth anniversary of late President of India APJ Abdul Kalam, who was a great visionary. This programme is to realise the dreams of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to deliver a new India where there is a high level of environmental protection.

Harsh Vardhan

Vardhan informed that the mini marathon is an initiative to send a strong message to the countrymen that each must contribute to protect and ensure our air quality.

Meanwhile, the air quality of Delhi's Lodhi Road area remained in the 'poor' category on Sunday morning with prominent pollutants - PM 2.5 and PM 10.

(With inputs from ANI)