The Delhi government has announced that Diwali celebrations will proceed in a traditional manner, following the Supreme Court's approval for the use of green crackers in Delhi-NCR. This decision marks a potential turning point after years of restrictions on firecrackers during the festival.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for permitting the use of green crackers in the capital, acknowledging the court's consideration of the government's request. Gupta stated that the decision "honours the sentiments and festive spirit of the people on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, while also reflecting a balanced approach towards environmental protection". She emphasized the Delhi government's commitment to both public sentiment and a clean, green Delhi, urging citizens to celebrate responsibly with green crackers.

Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra also welcomed the Supreme Court's decision, stating that people would celebrate Diwali traditionally after many years. He credited the change in government for ending the "ban on Hindu festivals".

The Supreme Court's decision comes after a period of deliberation on the matter. The court had previously sought reports from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) regarding standards and enforcement mechanisms for green crackers.

The permitted sale and bursting of green crackers in Delhi-NCR is allowed for a limited time frame during Diwali. The Supreme Court has proposed specific time windows for bursting green crackers during major festivals. For Diwali, firecrackers can be used between 8 pm and 10 pm.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Delhi-NCR states, outlined strict measures to ensure the production and sale of only approved green firecrackers. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) and NEERI will conduct regular inspections of manufacturers. Mehta also proposed a ban on online sales of firecrackers to further regulate their distribution.

Green crackers are designed as a lower-emission alternative to traditional firecrackers, aiming to reduce air pollution while maintaining festive celebrations. They are developed using standards set by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI). Green crackers have a reduced shell size and eliminate ash-producing materials. They also incorporate additives to suppress dust and reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions. These crackers are designed to achieve approximately a 30% reduction in PM and at least a 10% reduction in gaseous emissions.

While green crackers offer a reduced pollution alternative, experts have cautioned that extensive use could negate these benefits. Concerns remain regarding the effective enforcement of regulations and the potential for even green crackers to cause temporary spikes in pollution, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

The Supreme Court's decision aims to strike a balance between environmental protection and religious sentiments. The situation will be monitored closely to assess the impact of green crackers on air quality during Diwali.