After Crackers, Now Incense Sticks? Government Agency Advises Delhi Residents To Avoid The Hindu Puja Accessory

With air pollution in the national capital showing no signs of abatement, the government isn't shying away from new alternatives to make Delhi’s air clearer. Now, System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has issued an advisory to the residents of Delhi to refrain from using incense sticks during the festive season, as reported by Press Trust of India.

It has also asked Delhiites to keep outside movement to a minimum, as the safety provided by dust masks against pollution, wasn’t satisfactory. The officials at the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), raised alarms as the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 3 pm on 30 October (2018), had reached to 401, in the ‘severe’ category.

The SAFAR advisory also noted, “If the room has windows, close them, if the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option then choose it, avoid burning anything such as wood, candle or even an incense.”

As part of the Grade Action Response Plan, the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) has recently stated that private vehicles could be taken off the roads if air quality deteriorates even further.

“Let us hope the air pollution situation in Delhi doesn't deteriorate or else we will have to stop plying of private vehicles. Only public transport will be used," Bhure Lal, Chairman, Environment Pollution Control Authority told ANI.