An Analysis of the Impact of Stubble Burning and Firecrackers on the Environment and Human Well-being

Abstract

Pollution, the contamination of the environment with harmful materials, affects human health, quality of life, and ecosystem functions. Recently, stubble burning and firecracker usage have drawn attention for their environmental impact, particularly in India’s National Capital Region (NCR): Delhi, where toxic air creates public health emergencies in winter due to inversion, moisture, and poor wind dispersion. Fireworks also cause short-term air quality deterioration by releasing hazardous chemicals and organic pollutants. Ground-level displays have immediate health effects, unlike high-altitude releases, which dilute pollutants. The bursting of firecrackers is seen as a symbolic expression of joy in Indian Culture. Using both primary data, from farmers as well as the people of Delhi and Chandigarh (two Union Territories of India, one being the capital city and the other being a comparatively cleaner and greener city) and secondary data and information, collected from government and credible portals, an analysis has been done on the impact of stubble burning and firecrackers along with the reasons for these taking place from the surveys carried out online. This analytical research aims to bring forward the potential reasons for people continuing to burst firecrackers and farmers burning stubble, despite knowing the detrimental impacts on environment and health of others, as well as assessing the impact on the health of residents of Delhi and Chandigarh.