Delhi Government Prepares Measures Ahead of Possible Green Firecracker Ban Lift

Supreme Court reserves order; Delhi authorities plan enforcement and awareness campaigns

New Delhi, October 12, 2025 — With Diwali just over a week away, the Delhi government has laid out a series of measures to manage the use of firecrackers in the city, following directions from the Supreme Court, which has reserved its verdict on lifting the ban on green firecrackers.

In an affidavit submitted to the apex court, the Delhi government indicated its readiness to enforce anti-pollution protocols and monitor the sale and use of non-compliant traditional firecrackers, should the ban on green firecrackers be relaxed.

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Planned Measures for Enforcement

Officials stated that multiple steps have been planned to ensure compliance and safeguard air quality during the festive period:

• Dedicated Control Room: A special unit will handle complaints related to firecracker violations throughout the Diwali season.

• Enforcement Teams: Personnel from Delhi Police, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will conduct on-ground monitoring to prevent the sale and bursting of illegal firecrackers.

• Digital Reporting: Citizens will be able to report violations via apps like Sameer, Green Delhi, and other official channels.

• Awareness Campaigns: Public education drives will inform residents about permitted green firecracker types and their environmental benefits.

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Government Readiness

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa emphasized the administration’s preparedness. “If the Supreme Court lifts the ban, we are ready to implement all necessary measures to ensure compliance and protect public health. A meeting will be convened immediately to strategize enforcement in line with the court’s order,” he said.

Sirsa had earlier suggested that, if permitted, the use of firecrackers could be allowed for a limited period—one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening during Diwali and Gurupurab.

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Supreme Court Position

The Supreme Court recently indicated that a five-day relaxation of the ban could be considered. It observed that a complete prohibition on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR is often impractical, as such restrictions are frequently violated. The court noted the importance of balancing public enjoyment of festivals with environmental protection.

The Delhi government has sought the flexibility to lift the ban partially while simultaneously deploying enforcement measures to minimize air pollution and ensure adherence to green firecracker regulations.