Supreme Court Permits Green Firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali with Strict Conditions

Court's Balanced Approach to Festival and Environment

A bench comprising Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran emphasized taking a "balanced approach" while delivering the verdict on Wednesday. The court acknowledged that smuggled conventional firecrackers cause significantly more environmental damage than certified green alternatives. "We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment," Chief Justice Gavai stated during the proceedings.

Strict Guidelines and Time Restrictions

The Supreme Court has imposed specific time slots for bursting green crackers - only between 6 AM to 7 AM and 8 PM to 10 PM on two designated days: the day before Diwali and on Diwali itself. The court specified that firecrackers can only be burst for a total of three hours on Diwali day, which falls on October 20, 2025.

Key restrictions include:

• Sales permitted only at designated locations identified by district collectors in consultation with police
  
  

• Only NEERI-certified green crackers with QR codes are allowed
  
  

• Complete ban on e-commerce sales of all firecrackers
  
  

• No firecrackers from outside Delhi-NCR will be permitted
  
  

• Special patrolling teams will monitor compliance and verify QR codes
  
  

What Makes Green Crackers Different

Green crackers, developed by CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), are scientifically designed eco-friendly alternatives that produce 30-50% fewer emissions compared to conventional firecrackers. These crackers eliminate harmful chemicals like barium nitrate, arsenic, and lead, instead using safer compounds such as potassium-based materials.

The key improvements include:

• Lower emissions of particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) and harmful gases
  
  

• Reduced noise levels capped at 110-125 decibels versus 160+ decibels of conventional crackers
  
  

• Safer chemistry with elimination of toxic substances
  
  

• Verification features including CSIR-NEERI logo and QR codes for authenticity
  
  

Delhi CM Welcomes Court Decision

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for granting permission at the government's special request. "This decision respects public sentiment and enthusiasm on the sacred festival of Diwali, while also reflecting a balanced approach to environmental protection," she stated. The Delhi government had specifically approached the Supreme Court seeking permission for certified green crackers during Diwali celebrations.

Current Air Quality Concerns Prompt GRAP-1 Implementation

The decision comes amid deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, with the Air Quality Index crossing 211 on October 14, categorizing it as "Poor". The Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage-I measures under GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) across the region.

Current air quality readings show PM2.5 levels at 61 µg/m³ and PM10 at 153 µg/m³, prompting authorities to implement anti-pollution measures including enhanced road sweeping, water sprinkling, and dust suppression at construction sites.

Monitoring and Enforcement Measures

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution boards to closely monitor air quality from October 18-21 and submit detailed reports on the environmental impact. Any violations will result in license cancellation for manufacturers and fiscal penalties for violators.

The court's decision represents a carefully calibrated response to public sentiment while maintaining environmental safeguards, as Delhi prepares for Diwali celebrations under the shadow of rising pollution levels and the implementation of anti-pollution measures.