As the festival season approaches, the Delhi government has announced a complete ban on the manufacturing, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers to combat rising pollution levels during the winter months. This ban, which also extends to online sales and deliveries, will be enforced until January 1, 2025. The decision, announced by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, is aimed at reducing air pollution, particularly during festivals like Diwali, when firecracker usage traditionally spikes. The government hopes this measure will contribute to improving air quality in the capital during the festive period and beyond.
Earlier in the year 2023 ahead of Diwali 2023, the Supreme Court reinforced its earlier orders banning the use of barium and other banned chemicals in firecrackers, extending the prohibition beyond the National Capital Region to the entire country. A bench of Justices A S Bopanna and M M Sundresh clarified that previous orders aimed at minimizing air and noise pollution are binding on all states, including Rajasthan. The clarification came during a hearing related to Rajasthan’s compliance with the ban.
The court emphasized that states must take necessary measures not only during the festival season but throughout the year to reduce air and noise pollution. This decision reaffirms the court’s commitment to regulating harmful practices and protecting environmental health across India.