In a significant relaxation of its earlier orders, the Supreme Court on Wednesday permitted the sale and bursting of ‘green crackers’ in the Delhi-NCR between October 18 and October 21, including Diwali day, subject to strict conditions on time and location.
The order will enable partial lifting of the comprehensive ban imposed on firecrackers in the capital region to curb pollution levels during the festive season.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India B R Gavai clarified that only green crackers certified as less polluting and free from harmful chemicals like barium salts may be sold and used. The court said the relaxation was meant to balance the spirit of festivity with the right to clean air, particularly in light of the worsening air quality during the winter months.
The Benc