New Delhi: The Supreme Court has allowed the bursting of green crackers on the occasion of Diwali (October 20), but within a restricted time limit. As per the top court's order, firecrackers will be allowed only between 6 am and 7 am, and then from 8 pm to 10 pm. It further ruled that the crackers will be sold from October 18 to 20.
“As a temporary measure, we allow bursting of crackers from October 18 to 21. Crackers are smuggled into Delhi-NCR, and they cause more damage than green firecrackers,” Chief Justice of India BR Gavai said as he read out the order relaxing the blanket ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR.
“We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment,” he added.
A Supreme Court bench comprising the Chief Justice and Justice K Vinod Chandran maintained that the sale and bursting of only certified green crackers with QR codes will be permitted in designated locations.
Police officers, in consultation with the district administration, will form patrol teams, including officers from the State Pollution Control Board, to monitor the designated points of sale. Green crackers will only be sold with QR codes. Patrol teams will conduct regular checks to ensure that only green crackers with QR codes are being sold.
In case of violation of the order, those responsible will not only be punished, but their licence and registration will also be revoked. The court has also banned the sale and purchase of firecrackers via e-commerce websites.
