New Delhi, Oct 15 — The Supreme Court on Tuesday permitted the limited sale and use of green crackers in Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) during Diwali, while laying down strict conditions to prevent a recurrence of the severe pollution episodes that have plagued the capital in previous years.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran allowed the sale of National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)-approved green crackers between October 18 and October 20. However, the court restricted the bursting of crackers to two specific time slots — 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. — on the day before and on Diwali.
Observing that “commercial considerations and the festive spirit should take a back seat when it concerns the environment and health,” the Bench clarified that the relaxation was being granted only on a trial basis. Any further relaxation, it said, would depend on post-Diwali air quality data.
The court directed that only licensed traders be allowed to sell green crackers, and all products must carry NEERI-issued QR codes for verification. Police and district administrations have been tasked with forming special patrol teams to monitor designated sale points and ensure compliance. The teams will also collect random samples for testing by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
The Bench warned that violators — including those involved in the manufacture or sale of non-compliant fireworks — would face penalties and cancellation of licences. It also prohibited the sale of crackers containing barium or those sold through e-commerce platforms.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Boards have been directed to monitor air, water, and soil quality from October 14 to 25 and submit a detailed report before the next hearing in three weeks.
