Supreme Court Allows Green Cracker Manufacturing in Delhi-NCR, Maintains Sales Ban
Ahead of the Diwali festival, the Supreme Court has partially modified its ban on firecrackers in the Delhi-National Capital Region. The court will now permit the manufacturing of certified 'green crackers' within the NCR to protect the livelihoods of workers in the industry. However, it clarified that the absolute ban on the sale and storage of these crackers within the region remains in effect due to persistent air pollution concerns. The court emphasized the need for a balanced approach.
Unpacked:
Green crackers are firecrackers designed to produce less pollution by reducing emissions of particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. They use alternative raw materials and produce fewer harmful chemicals compared to traditional firecrackers, resulting in lower air and noise pollution.
Delhi-NCR faces severe air pollution, with PM2.5 levels in 2023 reaching 88.4 µg/m³, over eight times the WHO guideline. The region routinely experiences hazardous air quality, especially during winter. The ban on sale and storage aims to prevent further deterioration of air quality and protect public health.
High air pollution in Delhi—primarily from PM2.5—reduces average life expectancy by 8.2 years compared to the WHO standard, making it one of the most affected cities globally. Residents face increased risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to persistent poor air quality.
Authorities have implemented stricter vehicle emission standards, promoted public transportation, restricted construction dust, and coordinated stubble-burning prevention. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and other bodies regularly monitor air quality and introduce targeted interventions to reduce pollution.