Did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Thank Citizens for a Responsible Diwali Celebration?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's Diwali this year saw a blend of tradition and environmental awareness.
- The Supreme Court's approval for green firecrackers was pivotal.
- Pollution levels were notably managed compared to previous years.
- CM Gupta emphasized community responsibility and joy during the festival.
- Previous administrations failed to balance tradition with environmental concerns.
New Delhi, Oct 21 (NationPress) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed her gratitude to the residents of Delhi for celebrating Diwali this year while harmonizing traditional practices with environmental awareness.
“This year, the city’s glow, charm, and brightness were exceptionally remarkable,” she remarked, extending thanks to the Supreme Court for permitting the limited use of green firecrackers, as air quality monitors reported a slight increase in AQI the day following Diwali.
Despite a decline in air quality post-Diwali, with 29 out of 31 monitoring stations recording a ‘very poor’ AQI, the Chief Minister noted, “For the first time in years, the pollution levels in the city were notably managed before the festival, thanks to the government's effective initiatives.”
She emphasized her administration's ongoing commitment to tackling pollution, following a statement from Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, which indicated that the AQI was 335 before Diwali and rose to 356 afterward.
CM Gupta applauded the citizens of Delhi for their responsible celebration, prioritizing joy over pollution, stating that witnessing the vibrant Diwali festivities after many years brought her immense joy.
According to CM Gupta, in the days leading up to Diwali and on the festival itself, the entire atmosphere of Delhi felt revitalized.
“Markets buzzed with activity, and citizens eagerly shopped and decorated their homes. The people sensed that they had a government that honored Sanatan (eternal) traditions while also addressing modern-day necessities and feelings. They placed their trust in the Delhi Government and celebrated Diwali with great enthusiasm,” she remarked.
On Diwali night, the dazzling brilliance of Delhi was truly captivating. There was a palpable festive spirit among the populace. She expressed her gratitude to the citizens for their conscientious behavior in maintaining lower pollution levels and adhering to the Supreme Court's guidelines by opting for green firecrackers.
CM Gupta also criticized previous city administrations for their failure to balance tradition with environmental considerations during Diwali.
She noted that her government actively sought approval for the use of green firecrackers during Diwali and duly made a request to the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court, recognizing the nation's cultural sentiments and public emotions, consented to the limited use of green firecrackers, she stated.
CM Gupta highlighted that for nearly seven years, Delhi residents faced uncertainty regarding how to celebrate the festival. The Supreme Court had previously imposed restrictions on firecrackers due to escalating pollution levels. However, during this timeframe, the former government in Delhi failed to implement effective anti-pollution strategies and instead enforced a blanket ban on firecrackers.
This tactic, she pointed out, was counterproductive as illegal firecrackers continued to flood into Delhi, exacerbating pollution.
This year, Diwali brought double the joy for Delhi residents as they lit diyas, created rangolis, shared sweets, and celebrated with eco-friendly green firecrackers illuminating the night sky.
CM Gupta expressed that witnessing the people of Delhi celebrate such a beautiful and mindful Diwali after many years filled her heart with joy and satisfaction.