New Delhi, November 2 (TNA) The Supreme Court has permitted the bursting of approved green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR on November 7 and 8, subject to strict time limits and safety conditions.
Under the court’s directions, green firecrackers may be burst only between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on the two permitted days. The order follows the regulatory framework laid down by the Supreme Court in its October 15, 2025 judgment, which allowed limited use of green firecrackers while seeking to balance festive practices with public health and environmental concerns.
No-Cracker Zones
The court directed authorities to prohibit the bursting of firecrackers within a 300-metre radius of hospitals, nursing homes, primary and district health centres, old-age homes and notified silence zones. Educational institutions will also be designated as No-Cracker Zones. Authorities have been instructed to clearly mark, publicise and enforce these areas so that residents are aware of the restrictions.
Only Approved Firecrackers
The permission applies only to green firecrackers approved under the prescribed environmental standards. Conventional fireworks and firecrackers that violate emission, noise or chemical restrictions will remain prohibited.
The Supreme Court had earlier clarified that green firecrackers were permitted only under controlled conditions and within specified hours, rather than as an unrestricted relaxation of the broader ban.
The court’s directions place responsibility on Delhi-NCR authorities, police departments and local administrations to ensure compliance. Officials will be expected to monitor the sale and use of firecrackers, prevent violations in restricted areas and take action against unauthorised fireworks.
The court’s directions place responsibility on Delhi-NCR authorities, police departments and local administrations to ensure compliance. Officials will be expected to monitor the sale and use of firecrackers, prevent violations in restricted areas and take action against unauthorised fireworks.
The Supreme Court has previously expressed concern that its firecracker restrictions were not being effectively enforced and questioned authorities over the absence of reliable data on violations and action taken.
Residents have been advised to follow the permitted time windows, use only authorised green firecrackers and avoid bursting fireworks near hospitals, schools, healthcare facilities, homes for senior citizens, and other notified silence zones.