The Supreme Court on Monday permitted the use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for two days ahead of Diwali, while directing that a complete ban on firecrackers come into effect from November 9.
The court allowed green crackers to be burst on November 7 and 8 between 6 am and 7 am, and 8 pm and 10 pm. The permission comes amid continued concerns over air pollution in the National Capital Region during the winter months.
The Supreme Court also imposed restrictions on the locations where firecrackers can be used. No firecrackers will be permitted within a 300-metre radius of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health centres, old-age homes and notified silence zones.
The court was hearing two petitions, including a suo motu case concerning air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The proceedings cover several pollution-related issues, including firecrackers, stubble burning and solid waste management.
The second petition seeks a ban on the manufacture of firecrackers.
The latest directions establish a limited window for the use of green crackers during the festive period, before the complete prohibition takes effect from November 9.
The restrictions come as Delhi-NCR continues to grapple with deteriorating air quality during the winter season, when pollution levels are affected by multiple sources, including vehicular emissions, construction activities, agricultural residue burning and firecrackers.
Source: The Times of India
