The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed bursting green crackers in the national capital from October 18-21, but put certain conditions on the usage. The top court said the patrol teams will have to regularly check the manufacturers. However, the court said that there would be a complete ban on the sale of crackers on e-commerce websites, as well as bringing the crackers from outside Delhi-NCR.

“No crackers from outside Delhi-NCR can be sold here and if found, the licences of sellers will be suspended,” the top court said. The court has said that the crackers will be allowed to burst from 6-7 am and 8-10 pm in the evening.

It added that Central Pollution Control Board, state PCBs of NCR shall monitor AQI from October 18. Noting that they have to take a “balanced approach”, the court relaxed the ban from Oct 18-21. The decision comes a day after GRAP stage-1Delhi-NCR air quality dips, Stage-I GRAP actions invoked immediately (Graded Response Action Plan) was enforced in the national capital.

‘A balanced approach’

Every Diwali, the concern around air pollution is raised as crackers worsen Delhi’s already polluted air quality. Pronouncing the order, the court said, “We have to take balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with environment.”

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has welcomed Supreme Court nod for the sale and bursting of green crackers in Delhi-NCR on Diwali.

“We express our gratitude to the Honorable Supreme Court for granting permission to use green firecrackers in the capital at the special request of the Delhi government. This decision respects the sentiments and enthusiasm of the public during sacred festivals like Diwali, while also reflecting a balanced approach towards environmental protection,” she said on X.

“The Delhi government, while honoring public sentiments, is fully committed to the resolve of a clean and green Delhi. Our goal is to ensure that the vibrancy of festivals remains intact while also safeguarding the environment. This Diwali, let us all come together to celebrate with green firecrackers, harmonizing festivity and environmental protection, and work towards realizing the resolve of a ‘green and prosperous Delhi’,” the Delhi CM added.

The court has allowed the residents to burst green crackers a day after Diwali on October 21. But surprise and regular checks will be done by the authority to bust the sale from outside Delhi-NCR.