Overview
The Supreme Court has recently permitted the use of next‑generation green crackers in the NCR. This decision follows a series of suspensions and relaxations that began after the 2016 Deepavali celebrations pushed PM2.5 levels above 700 µg/m³.
Key Developments
- 2016: Supreme Court suspended fire‑cracker licences after Deepavali spikes in PM2.5.
- Sept 2017: Suspension eased to protect licence‑holders.
- Oct 2018: Court allowed only reduced‑emission “green” crackers, banned joined firecrackers, and set a two‑hour window.
- 2025 Deepavali: Despite green‑cracker allowance, post‑festival PM2.5 averaged 488 µg/m³, the highest since 2021.
- 2026 order: Permits specified next‑generation joined green crackers; total ban rejected citing public sentiment.
Important Facts
• The CSIR‑NEERI claims a 45‑60% cut in PM10 for green crackers, but field data show the benefit disappears when usage increases.
• Enforcement gaps exist: the Commission for Air Quality Management reported QR codes being sold to unregistered manufacturers, allowing illegal crackers to masquerade as green.
• Police in 2018‑19 could not reliably differentiate green from conventional crackers, and Delhi lacks a dedicated explosives testing facility.
Exam Relevance
Understanding this case helps aspirants link judicial interventions, environmental policy, and public health. It illustrates how court‑driven regulations interact with technological solutions (green crackers) and the challenges of implementation in a densely populated urban centre. Questions may arise on air‑quality management, the role of research institutions, and the balance between cultural practices and environmental sustainability.
Way Forward
- Strengthen the formal fire‑cracker manufacturing sector to ensure compliance with emission standards.
- Set up a dedicated testing laboratory in Delhi for rapid certification of green crackers.
- Enhance real‑time monitoring of PM2.5 during festivals and enforce the two‑hour window strictly.
- Promote public awareness about the health impacts of both particulate and noise pollution.
- Encourage alternative celebrations that reduce reliance on fireworks.
Only a coordinated approach involving the judiciary, regulatory bodies, research institutions, and citizens can curb the seasonal air‑quality crisis in Delhi NCR.