Supreme Court Allows Green Crackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd Nov: The Supreme Court on Monday permitted the use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for two days ahead of and on Diwali, allowing their use on November 7 and 8 within specified time windows. The court said the complete ban on firecrackers would return from November 9, citing the need to balance festive traditions with public health and environmental concerns.

The court allowed firecrackers only between 6 am and 7 am and 8 pm and 10 pm on both days.

300-Metre No-Cracker Zones
The Supreme Court prohibited the use of firecrackers within a 300-metre radius of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health centres, old-age homes and notified silence zones.

Educational institutions will also fall under the restriction. These areas must be declared and marked as ‘No-Cracker Zones’, with authorities directed to publicise the restrictions.

The court also directed District Collectors and Commissioners across the National Capital Region to identify designated locations for the sale of green crackers in consultation with Superintendents of Police.

Authorities have been asked to display banners at authorised shops and sale points explaining how consumers can identify CSIR-NEERI-approved green firecrackers.

Court Seeks Balance Between Environment and Festivities
Explaining its decision, the Supreme Court observed that a blanket ban might appear to be an ideal solution, but it lacked adequate data to determine whether a complete prohibition was the most effective way to address Delhi’s recurring pollution problem.

The bench also noted that the complete ban imposed in 2024 had not resulted in a clear improvement in air quality, raising questions about its effectiveness.

The court observed that Diwali carries religious, social, psychological and emotional significance for people. However, it stressed that allowing celebrations to contribute to environmental degradation and health hazards would defeat the purpose of the festivities.

Checks Against Illegal Firecrackers
The court directed authorities to monitor vehicles entering Delhi-NCR to prevent the transportation of conventional and illegal firecrackers.

It also emphasised that regulating sales alone would not resolve the pollution problem, calling for a broader change in public behaviour and awareness.

The bench reiterated its suggestion to involve members of the legal fraternity, celebrities and sportspersons in public-awareness campaigns. It specifically mentioned prominent personalities, including cricketer Virat Kohli, as potential participants in efforts to sensitise people.

The court also highlighted the importance of educating schoolchildren about the environmental and health impact of firecrackers, noting that awareness among young people could encourage responsible celebrations.

What Are Green Crackers?
Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), green crackers are designed to reduce emissions compared with conventional firecrackers.

They are claimed to produce around 30 per cent less pollution, use reduced quantities of certain chemicals and contain additives intended to suppress dust and smoke. They are also designed to produce less noise and burn for shorter durations.

The temporary permission applies only to certified green crackers and remains subject to the restrictions laid down by the Supreme Court.