TNPCB appeals to Chennai public to avoid burning plastics and tyres during Bhogi to prevent air pollution and health risks
TNPCB Urges Environment-Friendly Bhogi Celebrations
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has asked the public to celebrate Bhogi in an eco-friendly way. They advise against burning plastics, tyres, and other hazardous materials.
In a press release, the TNPCB noted that Bhogi is celebrated on the eve of the Pongal festival. Traditionally, people discarded old belongings to symbolize renewal and transformation. In the past, bonfires used natural materials that did not harm the environment.
Recently, however, the practice has changed. People have started burning discarded tyres, plastic goods, rubber tubes, and chemically treated paper.
The TNPCB stated that these activities produce dense black smoke. This leads to severe air pollution and health issues like eye irritation and sneezing. It can also disrupt air and road traffic in cities.
To monitor air quality, the TNPCB will conduct surveys at 15 locations in Chennai. These surveys will take place for 24 hours on the day before Bhogi, on Bhogi, and the day after. The air quality data will be available on the TNPCB website.
Air Quality Monitoring Schedule
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day Before Bhogi | Air Quality Survey |
| Bhogi | Air Quality Survey |
| Day After Bhogi | Air Quality Survey |
