New Delhi, October 11:
The Supreme Court has lit up the festive mood across Delhi-NCR, allowing the limited use of green firecrackers during this year’s Diwali celebrations. The move comes as a partial relaxation of the years-long restrictions on firecrackers imposed to control the region’s worsening air pollution during the festive season.
A Balanced Verdict
Hearing multiple petitions on the firecracker ban, a bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai said that while environmental protection remains a top priority, the court must also consider the cultural and economic dimensions of Diwali.
Hence, the court has permitted the sale and bursting of green firecrackers — those that release fewer toxic emissions — but only under strict timing and licensing conditions.
The bench clarified that this relaxation is not a blanket approval, but a “regulated celebration” meant to strike a balance between joy and responsibility.
What’s Allowed and What’s Not
According to the court’s guidelines:
- Only NEERI-approved green firecrackers can be manufactured, sold, and used.
- Bursting is allowed only between 8 PM and 10 PM on Diwali night.
- Sales will be restricted to licensed traders — no online sales will be permitted.
- Authorities are instructed to conduct random checks and strictly penalize any violations.
The court also urged the Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh governments to ensure that “the essence of the order is not lost in implementation.”
Why the Change of Heart
The Supreme Court’s latest decision reflects an effort to respect tradition without compromising on public health. Over the past few years, Delhi’s air quality has plummeted to hazardous levels around Diwali, with a mix of crop burning, weather patterns, and cracker smoke creating a choking smog blanket.
However, the firecracker industry and several citizens had pleaded for a relaxation, citing job losses and cultural sentiments attached to Diwali celebrations.
“The goal is not to ban happiness, but to ensure that celebration does not turn into suffocation,” remarked one of the judges during the hearing.
Green Crackers: A Cleaner, Not Perfect, Option
Experts point out that while green crackers reduce emissions of harmful chemicals like barium and aluminum, they are not completely pollution-free. They emit 30–40% less particulate matter than traditional ones — a meaningful but limited improvement.
Environmental activists have welcomed the cautious approach but warned that without proper enforcement, the move could backfire. “The challenge is not the court’s order, but how effectively it is followed on the ground,” said a Delhi-based air quality researcher.
The Bigger Picture
For many Delhiites, the decision offers a glimmer of festive relief after years of silent Diwalis. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of the city’s fragile air quality, which dips dangerously low every winter.
The court concluded its remarks with an appeal to citizens: “Celebrate responsibly. Let Diwali be bright, not smoky.”
