‘Green Crackers Allowed in Delhi-NCR’ This Diwali: Here Are Must Know Dos And Don’ts

New Delhi: In a major relief for Delhi-NCR residents ahead of Diwali, the Supreme Court on Wednesday eased the blanket ban on firecrackers and allowed the use of green crackers — but only for a limited period and under tight conditions.

A Bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran delivered the verdict, saying that while pollution concerns are real, a “balanced approach” is necessary to respect festive traditions.

“We have considered the suggestions by the Solicitor General and the Amicus. Since firecrackers are being smuggled in, they cause more damage than green firecrackers. We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment,” Chief Justice Gavai said.

The court referred to its earlier ruling in the Arjun Gopal case, which laid down norms for regulated bursting of crackers, and took note of the Delhi government’s October 14, 2024, order that had imposed a total ban, later extended to the NCR.

So, when can you burst crackers this Diwali? Here’s what the top court has permitted:

Dates allowed: From October 18 to 21 only.

Time slots: 6 am to 7 am and 8 pm to 10 pm on the day before Diwali and on Diwali.

Type of crackers: Only green crackers with valid QR codes.

No imports: Firecrackers from outside the NCR region will not be allowed.

Strict checks: Patrol teams to inspect manufacturers; fake or non-green crackers will lead to immediate suspension of licence.

Monitoring: The Central and State Pollution Control Boards will track air and water quality from October 18 and submit reports to the court.

The Supreme Court had earlier reserved its verdict on October 10, observing that a complete ban was “neither practical nor ideal” as such restrictions are frequently flouted. The Bench said a “balancing of equities” was needed to safeguard both public health and festive sentiment.