The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued a stern directive to the Union government, calling for the immediate and strict enforcement of firecracker restrictions within the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). The intervention came after a judicial bench, comprising Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale, took cognisance of media reports detailing the ongoing sale of various types of firecrackers in local markets, despite explicit court orders limiting their availability and use.
During the proceedings, the bench drew the attention of Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati to the findings, which indicated that both licensed and unlicensed firecrackers—including items lacking mandatory QR codes—were being sold in blatant disregard of existing mandates. The court directed the government to investigate the matter urgently and ensure that its previous orders regarding firecracker regulation are implemented effectively on the ground.
This latest development follows an order issued by the court on October 29, which acknowledged that the bursting of firecrackers contributes significantly to rising air pollution levels in the capital. While the court noted that there was currently insufficient data to conclude that a total, permanent ban would be the most effective mechanism to combat pollution, it emphasized that current restrictions must be upheld to mitigate environmental impact during the festival period.
Under the court's current guidelines, the sale and bursting of only 'green' firecrackers are permitted in the region, and exclusively on November 7 and 8 to coincide with Diwali celebrations. These activities are further limited to specific time slots: between 6 am and 7 am, and again from 8 pm to 10 pm. The bench clarified that a comprehensive ban on all firecracker types will resume across the region on November 9.
Beyond the time-bound limitations, the Supreme Court has designated several 'no-cracker zones' where the bursting of any firecrackers is strictly prohibited. These restricted areas include a 300-metre radius around hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health centres, old-age homes, and all other notified silence zones. Local authorities have been tasked with the responsibility of clearly demarcating these zones on the ground and ensuring public awareness regarding these exclusion areas.
The judiciary has expressed clear frustration regarding the apparent lapse in enforcement by local authorities tasked with implementing these directives. The court underscored that its previous orders were intended to create a balanced approach to the festivities while protecting public health and the environment. By failing to regulate the market, local agencies have allowed non-compliant products to circulate, undermining the judicial efforts to maintain air quality standards during high-pollution periods.
As the festive period continues, the spotlight remains on the efficacy of state and central agencies in curbing the illicit sale of banned firecrackers. The court’s insistence on strict compliance is expected to shift the focus toward increased police and administrative vigilance in markets across the Delhi-NCR region to ensure that the designated no-cracker zones remain protected and that only authorized green products are sold within the narrow time frame allowed by the apex court.
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