Diwali Spark: SC Permits Green Crackers in Delhi-NCR for Limited Window
The Supreme Court permits certified green crackers in Delhi-NCR for a limited window before Diwali with strict rules and designated zones.
In a significant move ahead of the festival of lights, the Supreme Court has granted a limited relaxation on the ban of firecrackers, permitting the manufacture, sale, and bursting of certified green crackers in Delhi-NCR for a brief period. However, the top court has made it clear that this is a temporary window, with a complete ban on all firecrackers set to be restored from November 9, 2026.
The Timeline for Celebrations
A bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and Prasanna B Varale has outlined a very specific schedule for the use of approved green crackers to balance festive traditions with environmental concerns:
- Sale and Manufacture: Allowed from November 4 to November 6.
- Bursting Schedule: Permitted only on November 7 and 8, during two specific slots: 6 am to 7 am and 8 pm to 10 pm.
Strict 'No-Cracker Zones' and Restrictions
The court has emphasized that celebrations must not disturb the vulnerable. No firecrackers of any kind are permitted within 300 metres of the following areas, which will be officially marked as ‘No-Cracker Zones’:
- Hospitals and healthcare centres
- Old-age homes
- Educational institutions
- Notified silence zones
Furthermore, the court has strictly prohibited the use of 'ladis' (firecrackers joined in series) and any crackers containing barium or those not approved by the CSIR-NEERI.
Water-Tight Safeguards to Prevent Fraud
To ensure that conventional, high-pollution crackers do not enter the market disguised as green crackers, the Supreme Court has mandated rigorous certification and tracking measures:
Certification and Licensing
Manufacturers must hold valid PESO licences and CSIR-NEERI certification. They are only permitted to produce green crackers that are officially listed on the CSIR-NEERI website between November 2 and 6.
The QR Code Mandate
Every single box must be sealed and feature a product- and batch-specific QR code. This code must disclose:
- Manufacturer details
- NEERI registration
- PESO/DM licence
- Chemical formulation and test certificate
The court warned that these QR codes are non-transferable; any attempt to sell or trade them will result in the immediate cancellation of the manufacturer's registration or licence.
Enforcement and Penalties
The apex court has directed district administrations and police to maintain a strict vigil. Key enforcement measures include:
- Designated Markets: Green crackers can only be sold at specific locations designated by district administrations. Online sales are strictly prohibited.
- Police Inspections: Teams will verify QR codes in markets, confiscate illegal stock, and prosecute violators.
- Border Checks: Vehicles entering the Delhi-NCR region will be inspected to stop the smuggling of conventional crackers.
- Financial Security: Manufacturers and traders must provide substantial monetary security, which will be forfeited if they violate any court directions.
Notably, traders whose licences were previously cancelled have been given a temporary reprieve to operate from November 4 to 6, provided they sell only approved green crackers. Any violation will lead to permanent cancellation.
Beyond the Festival: A Push for Behavioral Change
The Supreme Court observed that regulation alone is not enough, stating that the ultimate goal is to bring about a "holistic change" in how the public perceives pollution. To ensure transparency and awareness, the court has ordered several systemic actions:
Monitoring and Reporting
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), along with State Boards, must prepare daily air quality reports for three phases: pre-Diwali (Nov 2-6), Diwali (Nov 7-8), and post-Diwali (Nov 9-30). This will include the collection of sand and water samples for comparative analysis. Additionally, all non-functional AQI monitoring stations must be repaired immediately.
Public Awareness and Cleaning
The Delhi government and other state authorities must publish the Winter Action Plan 2026, Air Pollution Mitigation Plan 2026, and the CAQM Annual Action Plan in newspapers and on news channels. To reach the youth, education departments are tasked with sensitizing schoolchildren, while the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will broadcast messages regarding the harmful effects of firecrackers.
Finally, the court has ordered authorities to carry out thorough post-festival cleaning and solid waste disposal, particularly in areas identified as highly polluted.