The Supreme Court on October 15, relaxed the blanket firecracker ban in the Delhi-NCR region, allowing the sale and bursting of environmentally friendly “green firecrackers” from October 18 to October 21. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandra set strict guidelines on timings, product standards, and enforcement, aiming to balance public celebration with environmental protection.
Supreme Court relaxes firecracker ban conditions in Delhi-NCR region ahead of Diwali and allows bursting of green firecrackers from October 18 to October 21.
Supreme Court also allows bursting of green fire-crackers from 6 am to 7 am on Diwali and again from 8 pm to 10 pm in the… https://t.co/sZ7iqdRNZY
— ANI (@ANI) October 15, 2025
The apex court permitted the bursting of green firecrackers between 6 am and 7 am and again from 8 pm to 10 pm, noting the need for a “balanced approach” that permits festivities in moderation without compromising air quality. The Court observed that smuggled and unregulated firecrackers pose a greater environmental hazard than green alternatives approved by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI).
Highlighting enforcement challenges, the Supreme Court ordered the police authorities to constitute patrolling teams to ensure that only firecrackers with QR-coded verification are sold. It also mandated that no firecrackers be brought into the Delhi-NCR region from outside, and warned that licenses would be suspended if fake or unapproved firecrackers are found.
“Use of firecrackers not approved by NEERI shall not be permitted,” the Court underscored, emphasising the need for stringent quality control amid the festive season.
The Court directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution boards to monitor air and water quality during the period, submitting a report on the environmental impact of fireworks from October 14 to 21.
The Supreme Court’s order comes in response to public grievances regarding air pollution in the national capital region and follows the Delhi government’s earlier October 14, 2024, order imposing a blanket ban on firecrackers, which had later been extended across the NCR. The Bench noted that while protecting public health and the environment remains paramount, it is equally important to consider public sentiment and practical realities in enforcement.
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