As the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR continues to hover at hazardous levels, a viral video of a wedding procession bursting firecrackers on a road in Gurgaon has ignited a social media storm. The video, captured from a resident’s balcony, shows a thick haze blanketing the area while the baaraat lights firecrackers, adding to the already polluted air.
The clip, less than a minute long, showcases plumes of smoke rising from the firecrackers, further deteriorating the air quality. The AQI in Gurgaon, according to recent reports, has reached alarming levels, with readings close to 999—well above the “severe” category.
Social Media Backlash
The video sparked outrage online, with many criticizing the procession for contributing to the worsening air pollution. One user mocked, “They are celebrating the 1000 AQI mark in Gurgaon—a feat no global city has ever achieved!” Another added, “It’s like celebrating Halloween with zombie decorations while an actual apocalypse is happening.”
Other comments took a more resigned tone, suggesting societal failure in addressing pollution. “People usually get married once in a lifetime. Why would they care about others? Let them enjoy their small life left after inhaling this toxic air,” one user wrote.
Comparisons to Chernobyl
Some users compared the visuals to a haunting scene from the TV series Chernobyl, where residents obliviously watched a nuclear disaster unfold. “This video has the same energy as the bridge scene from Chernobyl. Everyone is celebrating, unaware of what’s to come,” one user remarked.
Rising Concerns Amid Toxic Air
The incident underscores the growing frustration among residents as Delhi-NCR grapples with the season’s worst air quality. The AQI in Gurgaon and Delhi remains in the “severe” category, forcing schools and offices to revert to online classes and work-from-home arrangements. Despite these measures, individual actions like bursting firecrackers exacerbate the crisis.
The incident has reignited the debate about individual responsibility versus collective action in addressing air pollution in one of the world’s most polluted regions.
Conclusion
As Gurgaon residents cope with hazardous air, incidents like this highlight the need for stricter regulations and increased awareness about the impact of pollution on public health. While celebrations are an integral part of life, balancing them with environmental considerations remains crucial.
Sources By Agencies
