TNPCB Urges Caution Against Harmful Practices During Bhogi
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has issued an important appeal ahead of the Bhogi festival, urging the public to refrain from burning harmful materials like plastic, tyres, and tubes, which have become prevalent in recent celebrations. This annual request highlights the pressing issue of air pollution, as these substances emit toxic fumes that not only harm the environment but also pose significant health risks. The festival of Bhogi, traditionally a time for discarding old belongings and celebrating new beginnings, has seen a shift in the materials used for the ceremonial bonfires, with modern practices often leading to detrimental environmental consequences.
Historically, Bhogi was a time to dispose of old, natural materials such as wooden items and household goods crafted from organic substances. These items, when burned, would not contribute to air pollution, symbolising transformation without compromising the environment. However, the modern practice of burning plastics, synthetic tyres, and other non-biodegradable items during the festivities has escalated pollution levels, creating dense black smoke that is both a visual and health hazard. Such practices disrupt the air quality, leading to smog formation that can severely affect visibility, especially impacting flight operations and causing respiratory issues among the public. The TNPCB has specifically highlighted the dangerous effects of burning chemical-laden items, which release harmful gases into the atmosphere.
To monitor and mitigate these risks, the TNPCB has planned a comprehensive air quality survey across 15 locations in Chennai, where the impact of Bhogi celebrations on air quality will be assessed. This survey will run over the course of three days, covering the day of the festival, the day before, and the day after. The ambient air quality data collected will be published on the TNPCB website, offering transparency and valuable insights into the festival’s environmental impact. This move underscores the TNPCB’s commitment to both monitoring and reducing the pollution levels caused by traditional celebrations that are becoming increasingly harmful due to modern practices.
From a sustainability standpoint, the TNPCB’s appeal serves as a timely reminder of the broader environmental challenges posed by unchecked pollution. As India faces rising concerns about air quality, particularly in urban centres, the need for responsible and sustainable festival practices is more urgent than ever. The consequences of burning non-biodegradable items are long-lasting, contributing not only to air pollution but also to the accumulation of microplastics and toxins in the environment. The festival season, which often sees a rise in such harmful practices, must evolve towards more sustainable alternatives. Encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials for celebrations, including biodegradable items for bonfires, and raising awareness about the long-term benefits of cleaner, greener festivals, can help curb these negative environmental impacts. This shift is essential for the well-being of communities, especially in metropolitan areas like Chennai, which already struggle with air quality concerns throughout the year.
The TNPCB’s efforts to bring attention to the environmental cost of Bhogi celebrations are part of a larger movement towards sustainability, where traditional practices are adapted to reduce ecological harm. By embracing cleaner, environmentally conscious methods of celebration, the people of Tamil Nadu can ensure that Bhogi remains a festival of transformation—both personal and environmental. As the state grapples with rising pollution levels, the call for change becomes louder, encouraging everyone to reconsider how cultural celebrations can harmonise with the planet’s needs for cleaner air and healthier ecosystems.