Ahead of Diwali, a survey conducted in Delhi-NCR showed that 18% of respondents plan to burst firecrackers during the festival of lights, while 55% do not plan to do so.

The survey by LocalCircles of a sample of 10,526 said, “Among those who answered the question, 55% said they would not burn firecrackers as they cause pollution, while 19% said they would like to burn crackers and 9% percent said they would burn crackers.

“Nine percent of respondents said they would burn crackers and knew how and where to get them, while 8 percent did not give a clear answer. In conclusion, 18% of Delhi-NCR families surveyed are likely to Burn crackers this Diwali.”

Out of 10,526 people, 68% of the respondents were male while the remaining 32% were female, it added.

According to the survey, some residents have shown indifference to government advisories on firecrackers, as evidenced by the significant use of crackers during Karva Chauth celebrations on October 20.

“This indicates that many people still possess firecrackers despite the permanent ban on their manufacture, storage, sale and use in Delhi and NCR till January 1, 2025,” the survey said.

Many areas in Delhi-NCR reported air quality index (AQI) levels exceeding 350, classified as “severe”.

The situation led to the intensification of discussions between the inhabitants about the effectiveness of the ban and enforcement measures as Diwali approaches, the survey added.