Tihar Celebrations Marred by Noise and Air Pollution from Firecrackers
Summary
Firecrackers during Tihar are worsening noise and air pollution in Kathmandu, pushing the valley’s AQI to an unhealthy 143 by midday. Doctors and environment experts warn of hearing damage, toxic emissions, and harm to people, animals, and the environment, while a child has also died in Parsa from firecracker shrapnel.
Key Points
- Firecrackers during Tihar are disturbing sleep, increasing noise pollution, and worsening air quality in Kathmandu Valley.
- Kathmandu’s AQI reached 143 by midday, placing the valley among the world’s most polluted cities for the day.
- Environment officials and experts urged people to avoid plastic flowers and firecrackers and to adopt cleaner festival practices.
- A child died in Parsa after being hit by firecracker shrapnel while bursting crackers outside his home.
