The Supreme Court has permitted the use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for two days during Diwali this year, offering temporary relief to residents amid strict restrictions on bursting crackers due to air pollution. According to the court’s directions, people will be allowed to burst only approved green crackers on November 7 and 8.
The court has also specified strict time limits for bursting firecrackers and directed authorities to ensure compliance with its orders. The temporary relaxation will end on November 8, and a complete ban on bursting crackers will come into force again from November 9.
When Can People Burst Green Crackers?
As per the Supreme Court’s directions, green crackers will be permitted only during two designated time slots on November 7 and 8.
People can burst crackers between 6 am and 7 am and again between 8 pm and 10 pm. Bursting crackers outside these permitted hours will not be allowed.
The court has also directed authorities to put up awareness banners and clearly inform the public about the restrictions. Action will be taken against those violating the prescribed timings.
No-Cracker Zones Around Schools and Hospitals
The Supreme Court has identified sensitive areas where even green crackers will not be permitted. Schools, colleges, hospitals and nursing homes will be designated as silent zones.
A 300-metre radius around these institutions will be declared a ‘No-Cracker Zone’. Authorities have been directed to identify and mark these areas and publicly announce the restrictions.
The court also stressed that the interests of patients and people suffering from health conditions must be protected.
Strict Rules for Green Crackers Sale
The court has directed commissioners and district magistrates across Delhi-NCR to identify designated locations for selling green crackers in consultation with the respective Superintendents of Police.
Sales will be permitted only at these approved locations. Online sales of firecrackers will remain prohibited. Authorities have also been asked to inspect vehicles to prevent the transportation and sale of illegal and conventional firecrackers.
Awareness Banners at Shops
Firecracker shops must display banners explaining how to identify CSIR-NEERI-approved green crackers. Shopkeepers must also ensure that green crackers are sold only in properly sealed packages.
The directions aim to regulate the sale and use of firecrackers while balancing Diwali celebrations with concerns over air pollution in Delhi-NCR.