Indian Thought Latest News & Views
New Delhi: In a significant relaxation ahead of Diwali, the Supreme Court on Wednesday permitted the sale and use of green crackers ( crackers ) in Delhi and the NCR during the festival, subject to certain conditions. The court also clarified that green crackers can only be used for a few hours on Diwali and the day before.
Firecrackers will be allowed to be burned until this time.
The court stated that green crackers can only be sold from October 18th to October 20th. The day before Diwali and on Diwali day, firecrackers will only be allowed to be burned between 6 am and 7 pm and 8 pm and 10 pm. These crackers will only be sold at locations jointly determined by the District Collector and Superintendent of Police. Information about these locations will be widely publicized so that people know where to purchase green crackers.
Police to Form Patrolling Teams
The court has ordered that the police and district administrations jointly form patrol teams. These teams will also include officials from the State Pollution Control Board. These teams will ensure that only green crackers with QR codes are sold. Any shopkeeper or company found violating this order will face cancellation of their license and legal action.
Firecrackers will not be sold online
Barium-based crackers, string crackers, and crackers not approved by NEERI will be completely banned. The sale or purchase of firecrackers on online (e-commerce) websites will also be completely prohibited. The Supreme Court has warned that a complete ban will be reimposed if the rules are not followed. The court stated that the joy of the festival is important, but the right to health and clean air is even more important.
The Supreme Court also ordered the Central and State Pollution Control Boards to prepare and submit air, soil, and water quality reports to the court between October 14th and 25th. The court directed that a copy of its order be sent to the collectors of all districts in Delhi-NCR. The next hearing in this case will take place in three weeks.
