Experts caution against pyrotechnics during Tihar festivities

Kathmandu, October 31 — Environmental experts have cautioned against fireworks during the Tihar festival.     

They said the bursting of firecrackers during the celebration of the Festival of Lights results in air and sound pollution as this causes the release of chemical gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and air pollutants.     

Expert Bhushan Tuladhar said the release of toxic gases makes the air polluted, causing health hazards to human health including respiratory complications. "That's why the display of firecrackers is not recommended by environmental and health aspects."     

"Many children are seen involved in the display of firecrackers during the Deepawali festival for entertainment, but it is hurting their health," he said, adding that the sound of bursting also caused discomfort for animals and may affect the mental health of humans.     

Climate change expert Manjit Dhakal stressed that authorities concerned should strictly control the use of firecrackers considering its environmental and human consequences. He also insisted on the need to increase public awareness against this.     

However, lately, the rate of bursting of firecrackers has slightly declined in the country.     

He advised the public to light the eco-friendly lights for the festival celebrations.     

Sharing that the emission of toxic smoke and gas from firecrackers might cause allergy, itching, asthma as well as liver, lung, heart and respiratory problems, public health experts urged all to adopt precautions.     

One can suffer from mental stress, high blood pressure, and permanent damage in ear from loud cracker sound, added public health workers.     

As per the Air Quality Index, the pollution has increased in Delhi of India due to Tihar festival. Delhi has now been enlisted in the list of third polluted city in the world.     

According to Spokesperson of the Department of Revenue, Mukti Prasad Shrestha, due to Nepal-India open border, firecrackers are smuggled to Nepal during festival period evading tax.     

The clause 7 of the National Criminal Procedures (Code) Act, 2074, has the provision that explosive materials should not be produced.