New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday (October 15) allowed the sale and use of "green crackers" in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) during Diwali. The court permitted the use of green crackers on Diwali and one day before the festival.

A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai emphasised the need for a balanced approach, stating, "We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment."

The court allowed the bursting of green crackers from October 18 to 21, considering it a temporary measure.

The use of green crackers is expected to provide relief to firecracker manufacturers and traders who had been facing uncertainty due to previous court orders. However, the court underlined that the use of green crackers should not compromise environmental concerns.

Further, the CJI directed that the patrol team shall conduct regular checks on green cracker manufacturers, QR codes of the green crackers must be uploaded on the official websites, no crackers should be allowed to be brought into the NCR region from outside, and licences of manufacturers found selling fake crackers will be suspended.

Green crackers are a low-emission alternative to conventional firecrackers. These are developed using scientific standards set by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR–NEERI).

Reacting to the court's decision, Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta said on X, "We express our gratitude to the Honourable Supreme Court for granting permission to use green firecrackers in the capital at the special request of the Delhi government. This decision respects the sentiments and enthusiasm of the public during sacred festivals like Diwali, while also reflecting a balanced approach towards environmental protection."

"The Delhi government, while honouring public sentiments, is fully committed to the resolve of a clean and green Delhi. Our goal is to ensure that the vibrancy of festivals remains intact while also safeguarding the environment. This Diwali, let us all come together to celebrate with green firecrackers, harmonising festivity and environmental protection, and work towards realising the resolve of a 'green and prosperous Delhi," she added.

The Supreme Court bench has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution control boards (PCBs) of NCR to monitor air quality in the capital from October 18 till Diwali and submit a report.

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