Post by : Rameen Ariff

India’s Supreme Court has permitted the sale and bursting of “green firecrackers” during the upcoming Diwali festival in Delhi, even as the city struggles with extremely poor air quality. This marks a significant development, as firecrackers have been banned in Delhi since 2020 due to their major contribution to seasonal air pollution.

What Are Green Firecrackers?

Green firecrackers are specially designed to produce 20-30% less pollution than traditional firecrackers. They also generate minimal ash, making them a slightly safer alternative. Manufacturers claim these eco-friendly crackers are better for the environment. However, experts warn that despite being less harmful, green crackers still release toxic substances that can worsen air quality and impact public health.

Delhi’s Current Air Quality Situation

The Supreme Court’s decision comes at a time when Delhi’s air quality has reached extremely hazardous levels. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), PM2.5 levels in most parts of the city ranged between 300 and 400 on Wednesday morning. PM2.5 refers to tiny particles in the air that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause severe health problems. In some of the worst-affected areas, PM2.5 levels even crossed 400, posing serious risks to all residents, especially children, elderly people, and those with existing respiratory conditions.

The air quality index warns that levels above 300 can trigger respiratory illnesses in those exposed for long durations, while levels above 400 can affect even healthy individuals. Delhi frequently faces such dangerous air quality during winter due to low wind speeds, vehicular emissions, stubble burning in neighbouring states, and the widespread use of firecrackers during festivals.

Supreme Court Guidelines on Green Crackers

Along with permitting green firecrackers, the Supreme Court laid down strict guidelines for their sale and use:

• Firecrackers can only be sold from authorised shops between Saturday and Monday.

• Bursting of firecrackers is allowed only in designated areas.

• Usage is restricted to a three-hour window: one hour in the morning and two hours in the evening.

These rules aim to minimise the impact on air quality while allowing people to celebrate the festival safely.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

The decision has sparked a mixed response across social media platforms.

• Supporters argue that the allowance of green crackers enables families to celebrate Diwali fully.

• Critics, however, worry that enforcement of firecracker regulations has been weak in the past, and allowing their use could further deteriorate air quality in the city.

Government Measures Against Pollution

In response to the worsening air quality, the Delhi government recently implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Under this plan:

• Activities involving coal and firewood are banned.

• Use of diesel generators for non-emergency purposes is prohibited.

These measures aim to control rising pollution levels and protect the health of the city’s residents during the festive season.

Experts’ Warning

Experts caution that despite green firecrackers being less polluting, the air quality may still worsen after Diwali, especially with PM2.5 levels already in the hazardous range. They urge citizens to use eco-friendly alternatives wherever possible and avoid bursting firecrackers near vulnerable groups such as children, elderly, and patients with respiratory problems.

While green firecrackers provide a safer option for celebration, they are not completely pollution-free. Citizens, authorities, and festival organisers need to work together to reduce air pollution, ensuring a healthy and safe Diwali for everyone in Delhi.

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