In anticipation of Diwali, Delhi authorities are forming specialized teams to conduct ground checks aimed at curbing the illegal sale of firecrackers. This move comes as concerns rise over the flouting of firecracker regulations in the city, despite a Supreme Court order that permits only the sale of "green firecrackers" during a limited window.
The teams will be tasked with inspecting markets and other potential sales locations to ensure compliance with the ban on traditional firecrackers. This action aligns with the Delhi government's comprehensive prohibition on the sale, storage, and use of conventional firecrackers, implemented to combat pollution during the Diwali season.
Recent on-the-ground checks by news outlets have revealed that illegal firecracker sales are already rampant in Delhi markets, with vendors openly selling banned goods. Many vendors are misleading customers by labeling traditional firecrackers as "green," often printing these labels casually on packaging. These inspections found that critical certifications, such as QR codes from the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) or the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), are missing from the packaging. These certifications are required to verify that the firecrackers meet safety and emission standards.
Ahead of Diwali, Delhi Police have already seized over 7,800 kilograms of illegal fireworks and arrested 32 individuals in multiple operations across the city since September 1. These operations, conducted by various police districts and units, targeted residential areas, godowns, and commercial units where banned items were being repackaged and sold. Raids were carried out in areas including Dwarka, Rohini, Uttam Nagar, and Shahdara. In one instance, authorities seized 3,580 kg of firecrackers from a house in Rajouri Garden, where a family was allegedly stocking and repackaging the illegal material.
The Supreme Court has allowed the sale and use of green crackers in Delhi-NCR between October 18 and 21. These eco-friendly crackers, developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), produce 30 percent fewer emissions and lower noise levels. They also utilize safer chemicals to reduce particulate pollution. Green crackers are available in variants like Safe Water Releaser (SWAS), Sound Emitting Crackers (SAFE), and Safe Minimal Aluminium (SAFAL).
The Supreme Court's order permits sales only through licensed traders at pre-approved retail outlets, with strict enforcement against illegal or online sales. Citizens can burst green firecrackers only between 6 AM to 7 AM and 8 PM to 10 PM between Oct 18-21. The court has also instructed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards to monitor air quality and submit a report by October 21.
