Delhi govt to approach SC for lifting ban on green firecrackers during Diwali
The Delhi government plans to petition the Supreme Court to relax restrictions on green firecrackers during the upcoming Diwali festival, according to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. In a statement issued Monday, Gupta emphasized the importance of balancing environmental protection with cultural traditions. She noted that green firecrackers, designed to emit lower levels of pollutants compared to traditional varieties, could offer a compromise for residents eager to celebrate the festival of lights without exacerbating the city’s chronic air pollution issues. “While we remain committed to safeguarding public health and the environment, Diwali is a cornerstone of our heritage,” Gupta said. “By advocating for certified green alternatives, we aim to foster responsible festivities that minimize harm.” The move comes against the backdrop of stringent Supreme Court guidelines imposed in recent years to combat Delhi’s hazardous winter smog. In 2018, the court first banned all firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR), later permitting only “green” variants made with reduced barium nitrate and other toxic compounds. However, enforcement has varied, and a complete prohibition persists in some interpretations, prompting annual appeals from state authorities. Gupta highlighted data from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which monitors NCR pollution levels. Last Diwali, despite restrictions, particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations spiked by over 30% in parts of Delhi, underscoring the challenge of unregulated emissions from vehicles, stubble burning, and sporadic firecracker use. The government’s proposed petition would seek a temporary lift on the ban specifically for green firecrackers, backed by endorsements from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Officials argue that these products, approved under the Explosives Rules, 2008, produce 30% less smoke and noise, aligning with national clean air initiatives. Environmental groups have expressed mixed reactions. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) welcomed the focus on green options but urged stricter monitoring to prevent black-market influxes of banned items. “Innovation in low-emission fireworks is promising, but success hinges on public compliance and robust supply chain controls,” said a CSE spokesperson. This isn’t the first such effort. In 2023, the Delhi government similarly approached the apex court, resulting in a nuanced ruling that allowed limited sales through authorized vendors. Gupta’s administration hopes for a similar outcome, potentially effective by mid-October, ahead of Diwali on November 1. The initiative also ties into broader AAP-led efforts to revamp urban green spaces and promote electric vehicle adoption. With the AQI forecast to dip into the “poor” category soon, the timing of the petition underscores the high stakes for the festive season. As Delhi navigates its perennial pollution battle, the Supreme Court’s decision could set a precedent for other metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru, where similar restrictions apply. Stakeholders await clarity, emphasizing education campaigns to guide consumers toward sustainable choices.