Supreme Court Sets Firecracker Rules: Green Crackers Allowed with Strict Timelines for Diwali

As the vibrant festival of Diwali draws near, the Supreme Court of India has once again stepped in to provide crucial clarity regarding the use of firecrackers, aiming to strike a delicate balance between cherished traditions and environmental protection. The apex court has issued specific directives that differentiate between the severely polluted Delhi-NCR region and other parts of the country.

Responding to a plea for clear guidance, the Supreme Court has affirmed that only 'green crackers' are permitted for a restricted two-hour window during Diwali within Delhi-NCR.

This decision reinforces the court's persistent efforts to combat the alarming levels of air pollution that typically envelop the capital during the festive season. Consequently, the use of traditional, conventional firecrackers remains unequivocally banned in this critical metropolitan area.

For regions situated outside Delhi-NCR, the court has adopted a more accommodating, yet still regulated, stance.

These areas will benefit from a more extended five-day period for lighting green crackers, allowing for prolonged festive celebrations. However, this broader allowance is conditional upon the prevailing air quality; it applies specifically to areas where pollution levels are not classified as "severe." This nuanced ruling seeks to honor cultural practices while diligently working to prevent a significant deterioration of air quality in less critically polluted regions.

The bench, composed of Justices M.R.

Shah and A.S. Bopanna, explicitly reiterated that its previous orders imposing a ban on conventional firecrackers in Delhi-NCR are still actively in force. This clarification became necessary due to some confusion that had arisen regarding the precise scope and application of earlier judgments, particularly concerning the permissible types of crackers and the designated timeframes for their use.

This judicial intervention highlights the ongoing societal challenge of safeguarding public health and the environment while respecting deeply ingrained cultural festivities.

While the court has consistently encouraged citizens to embrace community firecracker displays and promote eco-friendly celebration alternatives, these latest directives offer concrete and actionable guidelines for the upcoming festival. The overarching goal remains a progressive transition towards greener alternatives, ensuring that the joyous spirit of Diwali does not inadvertently come at the expense of our collective health and environmental well-being.

Both citizens and local authorities are now tasked with thoroughly understanding and diligently adhering to these specific guidelines: a strict two-hour window for green crackers exclusively in Delhi-NCR, and a more generous five-day window for green crackers in other parts of India, contingent upon acceptable air quality.

This judgment stands as a pivotal reminder that responsible and mindful celebration is paramount for preserving both our rich traditions and the vitality of our planet.