New Delhi [India], October 15 (ANI): Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan has told Indian scientists to create zero-pollution crackers, so that people are able to enjoy Diwali without the harmful impact of crackers on the environment. Also Read - Sudarshan TV Row: 'Free Speech, Not Hatred,' Supreme Court Says Media Self-regulation System Toothless

“At the India International Science festival, we told our scientists to create zero-pollution crackers in future so that they don’t adversely impact the health of people and also the business of traders,” Harsh Vardhan told ANI, at the “Run for Clean Air” mini marathon at the India Gate. Also Read - 2021 Haridwar Kumbh: In a First, Number of Pilgrims to Be Restricted; Entry Passes to Be Issued

Notably, the national capital has not responded positively to the Supreme Court’s ban on the sale of firecrackers in New Delhi and adjoining regions. Also Read - Smart City Index 2020: Indian Cities Drop in Global Smart City Index; Singapore On Top

The order issued on October 9 has not only upset the Delhi residents, but also affected the business of traders.

“We can find a solution to keep everyone happy so that everyone is able to celebrate Diwali with a lot of joy, and children can enjoy their crackers also,” Vardhan asserted.

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, along with Union Minister Mahesh Sharma, was at the India Gate to flag off the mini marathon – “Run for Clean Air”.

Speaking at the event, Vardhan said, “We are celebrating the ‘Run for clean air’ marathon programme on the birth anniversary of late President of India, APJ Abdul Kalam, who was a great visionary. This programme is to realise the dreams of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to deliver a new India where there is a high level of environmental protection.”

Vardhan informed that the mini marathon is an initiative to send a strong message to the countrymen that each must contribute to protect and ensure our air quality.

Meanwhile, the air quality of Delhi’s Lodhi Road area remained in the ‘poor’ category on Sunday morning with prominent pollutants – PM 2.5 and PM 10. (ANI)

This is published unedited from the ANI feed.