Fireworks banned in Delhi ahead of Diwali

The government in Delhi, in India, has banned fireworks from being used, kept or sold in the lead up to Diwali.

Diwali is a five-day festival, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world.

The celebrations in Delhi are particularly popular, with lamps, fireworks, and displays usually lighting up the streets and skies.

However, this year, the government is concerned about the impact fireworks will have on the city's already poor air quality.

Pollution in Delhi

The current level of air pollution in Delhi is "poor"

Air pollution has been a problem in big cities like Delhi for a long time. The pollution levels in the city got so bad last year that schools had to shut.

Air can become polluted by harmful gasses from cars and factories being released into the air. These gasses can be dangerous to breathe in and cause health problems for lots of people.

What has this got to do with Diwali?

This picture shows the levels of pollution in Delhi. It was taken a few years ago just after Diwali, even when the government had banned certain types of firecrackers from being used

Celebrations for Diwali typically involve lighting lanterns and setting off fireworks and firecrackers.

When they explode, although they can make an exciting noise and show gorgeous colours, they can release harmful gasses into the environment.

When these are combined with already bad levels of air pollution, things can get worse.

Gopal Rai, who is the environment minister that helped make the decision on the ban, said it was to "protect public health".

However, some of his political opponents - that's people in government with different opinions to him - have said the ban is unfair.

Air-friendly Diwali

Some people opt for other ways to celebrate, like lighting lamps instead

Instead of lighting fireworks, over the past few years a campaign called 'Diye Jalao, Patake Nahi' has encouraged people to choose pollution-free ways to celebrate Diwali in Delhi.

It translates to 'light diyas, not firecrackers'. Diyas are a type of oil lamp made from clay or mud.

They are lit during Diwali to celebrate prosperity.