Supreme Court allows limited green cracker use in Delhi for Diwali

The Supreme Court on Wednesday eased its ban on green firecrackers and permitted their offline sale in Delhi-NCR, subject to strict conditions, news agency PTI reported.

The court said Delhi residents will be allowed to burst green crackers between October 18 and 21, from 6 pm to 10 pm, including on Diwali and the day before the festival. All green crackers sold must carry QR codes for verification.

A Bench of Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran also barred the sale of crackers brought in from outside Delhi-NCR. Sellers found violating this rule will have their licences suspended.

“We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment,” the court observed.

Monitoring and enforcement measures

The court directed patrol teams to conduct routine checks on cracker manufacturing and ensure all QR codes are uploaded to official portals. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution control boards (PCBs) have been asked to monitor air quality across NCR starting October 18.

All pollution-related data must be submitted to the court after Diwali.

This is the first time in nearly five years that fireworks have been permitted in Delhi-NCR, following the court’s decision to allow green crackers for five days on a trial basis.

When were firecrackers banned in Delhi?

In November 2020, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed a blanket ban on all firecrackers in Delhi and other highly polluted cities to control toxic emissions.

Later, in April 2024, the Supreme Court extended the ban for a year, noting that short-term restrictions were ineffective and that any relaxation for green crackers must be scientifically justified.

What are green crackers?

Green crackers are low-emission alternatives developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI).

These fireworks emit 30–40 per cent less particulate matter and sulphur dioxide than conventional crackers while maintaining similar visual and sound effects.

The Supreme Court’s decision aims to allow festivities while reducing health and environmental risks associated with traditional fireworks.

Delhi CM welcomes SC’s decision

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta welcomed the order, calling it a “balanced decision” that respects both public sentiment and environmental protection.

“We express our gratitude to the Supreme Court for permitting green firecrackers in the capital. This decision honours the spirit of Diwali while ensuring a clean and green Delhi,” she said on X.

Gupta added that the Delhi government remains “committed to the resolve of a clean and prosperous capital”, urging citizens to celebrate responsibly and opt for certified green fireworks.