far from being a festival of lights, Diwali has gradually become a nightmare for the residents of Delhi. In a report on the ambient noise level survey, the Central Pollution Control Board has recommended the bursting of crackers at one place instead of at individual houses. It has said that a time period for fireworks must be clearly specified by the government to minimise the pollution levels.

Some non-governmental organisations ( ngo s ) are trying to improve the situation by involving schoolchildren, who are the largest buyers of crackers. One such ngo is Delhi-based Nature Soule which is conducting programmes in almost 100 schools to sensitise the students against crackers. "We have enlisted 100 schools and have sent circulars to another 1,000,' says Sanjeev Walia, director, Nature Soule.

The aim of their campaign is to create awareness among school children and thereby maintain a pollution-free environment and help rehabilitate children working in firework units.