Delhi-NCR residents can burst firecrackers this Diwali, but only under strict SC guidelines; know the rules

New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India today has allowed the sale and bursting of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR from October 18 to 21, following a special request from the Delhi government. The move aims to balance the festive spirit of Diwali with the city’s environmental concerns.

In its order, the bench led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai highlighted the harmful effects of traditional firecrackers, which are often smuggled in and contribute heavily to pollution. “Over the past six years, with the support of the National Disaster Response Force, green crackers have significantly reduced pollution levels,” the CJI noted.

Supreme Court issues strict guidelines for Delhi-NCR

  • Permitted dates & timings: Firecrackers can be burst only from October 18 to 21, between 8 PM and 10 PM in the evening and 6 AM to 7 AM in the morning.

  • Type of crackers: Only green firecrackers with verified QR codes are allowed; traditional crackers remain banned.

  • Sale & transport restrictions: Sale is permitted only within Delhi-NCR, and bringing crackers from outside the region is prohibited.

  • Monitoring & enforcement: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution boards will monitor air quality and submit reports to the Supreme Court. Water samples will also be collected. Patrol teams will inspect green cracker manufacturers, and licences will be suspended if counterfeit crackers are found.

CM Rekha Gupta welcomes SC’s decision

The Delhi government welcomed the decision, expressing gratitude to the Supreme Court. The translation of CM Rekha Gupta’s X post reads: “We thank the Supreme Court for recognising public sentiment during Diwali while also taking a balanced approach towards environmental protection,”

She further emphasised the city’s commitment to sustainability: “Our aim is to ensure that the joy and vibrancy of festivals remain intact, while also protecting Delhi’s environment. This Diwali, let us celebrate responsibly with green crackers and work together to achieve a happy and green Delhi.”

Complete ban on firecrackers lifted from Delhi NCR

Notably, the Supreme Court referred to its earlier order of October 14, 2024, which had imposed a complete ban on firecrackers across the NCR region. This latest decision adopts a restrained and environmentally conscious approach, allowing residents to enjoy the festival safely.