THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Oct 15: In a significant relief ahead of Diwali, the Supreme Court has eased restrictions on firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR, allowing the sale and bursting of green firecrackers from October 18 to 21.
The court has fixed the permissible hours for bursting—6 to 7 am and 8 to 10 pm—stressing the need for a “balanced approach” between festive celebrations and environmental protection.
A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandra observed that a complete ban may not be practical, especially since illegal firecrackers are often smuggled into the region.
“We have to take a balanced approach, permitting bursting of green firecrackers in moderation while not compromising with the environment,” the bench said, allowing only certified NEERI-approved green crackers to be used.
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To ensure compliance, the court instructed the Delhi Police to deploy patrolling teams that will monitor the market and verify QR codes on all products. No firecrackers from outside the region will be allowed, and any sale of fake or unapproved products will lead to suspension of the seller’s licence.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution boards have been directed to track air and water quality between October 14 and 21 and submit an impact assessment report.
The order also reconsiders the Delhi government’s earlier blanket ban on firecrackers issued on October 14, 2024, which was later extended to the entire NCR.
The bench noted that the situation required a fresh look in light of both public sentiment and enforcement challenges.
This decision was delivered in the context of a broader case concerning air pollution in the national capital region.
