Supreme Court Eases Green Firecracker Ban for Diwali in Delhi-NCR

The Supreme Court has lifted the ban on the sale and use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR during Diwali. The decision, a joint request by the Centre and Delhi government, allows controlled bursting from October 18 to 21 while ensuring pollution monitoring. Strict guidelines on cracker sales are in place.

The Supreme Court has approved the sale and use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR during Diwali, easing previous restrictions in response to a joint plea by the Centre and Delhi government. The decision was announced by a bench including Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran.

Green firecrackers will be permitted from October 18 to 21, with pollution monitoring by Central and state pollution control boards. This decision aims to balance festive celebrations with environmental concerns, as illicit crackers smuggled into the region cause significant damage.

The court has mandated regular checks on manufacturers, requiring QR code uploads for transparency. Licenses will face suspension if crackers sourced from outside Delhi-NCR are found, ensuring compliance with the ruling. The detailed order is forthcoming.

(With inputs from agencies.)