Silent threat to Delhi’s air quality on Diwali: NCR’s covert fireworks trade exposed

As New Delhi grapples with a noxious cloud of air pollution, an India Today investigation has brought to light large-scale fireworks factories and retailers of crackers operating at full throttle in the National Capital Region despite restrictions.

Live Demonstrations at Shamli’s Cracker Factory
Merely 100 kilometres from the heart of New Delhi, the investigation exposed the production and sale of fireworks in locations like Shamli, Uttar Pradesh.

At his unit, Javed Khan was found producing a variety of crackers for the Diwali season.

He held a live show of his fireworks, boasting about the affordability and variety available.

Shahid, operating a factory-cum-store in the same neighbourhood, showcased a range of crackers, emphasizing the impact of pricing on chemical composition.