How firecrackers during Diwali impact your lungs and overall health
Every Diwali, air quality in cities like Delhi takes a big hit—think "severe" AQI levels—thanks to firecrackers.
These release fine particles (PM2.5, PM10), sulfur dioxide, and other pollutants that hang around for days.
This stuff gets deep into your lungs and is especially risky for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or heart problems.
Breathing in smoky air can lead to serious health issues
Even if you're healthy, you might feel burning eyes, coughing, or shortness of breath after breathing in the smoky air.
For people with conditions like asthma or COPD, symptoms can get much worse and hospital visits often spike right after the festival.
The smog can also lower lung function—especially tough on seniors.
What can you do to protect yourself?
Doctors suggest staying indoors when pollution peaks, especially during and after firecracker hours.
If you need to head out, wear a snug N95 mask. Keep windows closed, use an air purifier if you have one, and skip outdoor activities when firecrackers are going off.
Only "green" firecrackers are allowed in Delhi-NCR—and only at set times—thanks to Supreme Court rules.