When Will the Sale and Bursting of Green Crackers Be Allowed in Delhi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Green Crackers can only be sold from October 18-20.
- Usage time is limited to 6 AM – 7 AM and 8 PM – 10 PM.
- Only NEERI-approved crackers with QR Codes are allowed.
- All other firecrackers are banned.
- Report violations via Helpline 112.
New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Delhi Police announced that the sale and usage of Green Crackers in the city will be allowed exclusively from October 18 to 20. They cautioned that all other types of firecrackers are strictly prohibited.
In a statement released, Special Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Devesh Chandra Srivastava stated, “The use of Green Crackers is permitted only between 6 AM – 7 AM and 8 PM – 10 PM on the eve of Diwali and on the day of Diwali.”
The Delhi Police have organized patrolling and enforcement units to ensure adherence to these regulations. “We urge citizens to celebrate Diwali responsibly and to report any violations via Helpline 112,” he added.
The relaxation for using green crackers for three days is in accordance with the directives from the Supreme Court of India in the M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India case.
“Only Green Crackers that have received approval from NEERI and carry valid QR Codes will be allowed for sale through licensed vendors at locations designated by the District Administration and Delhi Police,” the police clarified.
The prohibition on all other firecrackers remains in effect, and any sale or use of banned, series, or online-purchased firecrackers will lead to strict legal consequences, warned Srivastava.
On Wednesday, the Delhi government expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court's approval of the sale and use of green firecrackers in the capital and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR).
Several ministers responded positively to the easing of firecracker regulations, congratulating residents and expressing gratitude to the Apex Court for endorsing a 'Green Diwali' in the city.
Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma stated, “I commend all the residents of Delhi for choosing a government that has delivered on its promises. Our Chief Minister assured a Diwali celebration in alignment with tradition, and the Supreme Court has honored these sentiments.”
Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra remarked, “This is a positive development. Our deepest thanks go to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for voicing the sentiments of Delhi’s populace before the Supreme Court. This time, we have received permission for green crackers, contrary to the previous bans imposed by the Kejriwal government.”
BJP Delhi President Virendra Sachdeva welcomed the decision to permit green crackers during Diwali, stating, “The BJP has consistently supported Diwali celebrations with crackers.”
“Previously, when the Kejriwal government was in power, it presented misleading information to the court, resulting in a blanket ban on crackers. Today, we have a government that stands by Sanatan Dharma. I believe pollution stems from numerous sources, not just one day,” he said.