Awaaz Foundation has raised concerns about the safety of so-called green firecrackers sold in Mumbai after laboratory tests reportedly detected high levels of barium in several products. With major festivals approaching, the nonprofit has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to strengthen enforcement against firecrackers containing potentially hazardous chemicals.
Tests Reveal Barium in Green Firecrackers
Awaaz Foundation founder and environmental activist Sumaira Abdulali wrote to the Chief Minister after the organisation tested 17 varieties of firecrackers purchased from Mohammed Ali Road and Kurla on 9 and 10 October. According to the test reports, several products labelled as green or sustainable contained significant quantities of barium. The Serpent Egg Big firecracker by Sri Patrakali Paper Caps reportedly recorded the highest concentration at 27.405%. Meanwhile, Pooja Plain by Sriram Sparkelers contained 13.613% barium, followed by Leo by Jai Durga Sparkles at 9.941% and Color Koti by Vinayaga Sonny at 8.74%.
Labelling and QR Code Irregularities Raise Concerns
The foundation also identified potential labelling and certification issues across the tested products. Four of the 17 samples did not disclose their chemical composition, while five lacked QR codes. As reported by Midday, of the 12 products carrying QR codes, four reportedly had fake codes, according to checks using the CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) app, which provides information about certified firecrackers. Eleven products also failed to display permissible noise-level limits on their packaging. “Disclosing all is mandated by the law,” Abdulali told Hindustan Times.
Foundation Calls for Stricter Enforcement
Barium has been identified as a hazardous substance, and the Supreme Court has prohibited its use in firecrackers. Against this backdrop, Awaaz Foundation has called for stronger regulatory oversight of firecracker manufacturing, distribution and sales. Abdulali argued that authorities must prevent potentially toxic products from reaching consumers rather than shifting the responsibility to citizens. She urged the police to act against the sale of firecrackers that contain hazardous substances or falsely claim to be environmentally friendly. The letter also referred to a Mumbai Police order prohibiting the use of firecrackers in public spaces until 4 December. The foundation called for stricter enforcement of these restrictions and closer scrutiny of licensed outlets.
Mumbai Air Quality and Festival Pollution Concerns
In addition to firecracker safety, the foundation highlighted concerns about Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality. According to the letter, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) had declined from the ‘good’ category in the previous month to ‘moderate’. Kherwadi recorded an AQI of 101 and a PM2.5 reading of 103 on Wednesday morning, as reported by the foundation. Awaaz Foundation sought restrictions on loudspeakers and laser lights during upcoming festivals, including Navratri, Dussehra, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Christmas and New Year. The organisation emphasised the need for stronger pollution-control measures to protect public health and minimise environmental impacts during the festive season.
