India's Top Court Allows Less-Polluting Crackers as Delhi Air Quality Worsens
Despite rising concerns over hazardous air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court of India has permitted the sale and bursting of "green crackers" during the upcoming Diwali festival. This decision, made on Wednesday, comes as Delhi's air quality dips to "poor" levels, signaling the return of the annual "pollution season".
Crackers have been banned in Delhi since 2020 due to their significant contribution to the city's air pollution. The court's decision to allow "green crackers" is an attempt to strike a balance between cultural traditions and environmental concerns. These so-called green crackers are designed to emit 20-30% less pollutants than traditional ones and generate minimal ash. However, critics argue that even these less harmful alternatives still release toxic substances into the air.
The Supreme Court has laid out specific guidelines for the sale and use of these crackers. Sales will be permitted only through authorized shops between Saturday and Monday, and bursting will be allowed only in designated areas. The court has fixed a three-hour window for their use: one hour in the morning and two hours at night. The court has allowed green crackers between October 18 and 21, with bursting restricted to between 6-8 am and 8-10 pm on the eve of Diwali and Diwali day.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions. Some welcome the move as a balanced approach, while others remain skeptical about the efficacy of "green crackers" and their potential impact on public health. Environmental activists express strong reservations, arguing that even reduced emissions pose risks.
The Supreme Court's decision came on the same day that air quality in Delhi was 25 to 30 times worse than the safe levels recommended by the World Health Organization. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), most parts of the city recorded PM2.5 levels between 300 and 400 on Wednesday morning. These fine particles are extremely dangerous, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose serious health risks. In some of the worst-hit areas, the levels crossed the 400 mark. Delhi's overall air quality remained in the 'poor' category for the second consecutive day, with the 24-hour average AQI at 233 on Wednesday.
The worsening air quality prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR. This plan includes 27 preventive actions to be implemented by relevant agencies, such as using anti-smog guns, water sprinkling, and dust suppression measures.
The court has mandated the Central and State Pollution Control Boards, in consultation with the CPCB, to monitor air quality from October 14 onwards and file reports with the court. The Supreme Court also stated that no crackers from outside Delhi-NCR can be sold in the city, and licenses of sellers found violating this will be suspended. To enforce these rules, patrol teams will regularly check cracker manufacturers and QR codes on green crackers must be uploaded on official sites to ensure authenticity.
Experts warn that the coming winter months are crucial. As temperatures drop and wind speeds slow, pollutants can get trapped close to the ground. Continued enforcement of construction and vehicular norms, along with vigilance against stubble fires, will be essential to maintain progress in curbing pollution.
