The Delhi government on Wednesday moved swiftly into action following the Supreme Court’s order permitting the limited sale and use of green firecrackers in the national capital as a temporary test measure.
Speaking on the development, Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Sirsa said, “This decision brings relief to Delhi residents who wish to celebrate Diwali in the traditional way.”
He added, “Our government respects people’s religious and cultural sentiments, and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that they can celebrate responsibly without harming the environment.”
Acting immediately after the order, Sirsa on Wednesday held back-to-back meetings with enforcement authorities and certified retailers to operationalize the directions.
The government has clearly instructed retailers to sell only NEERI-approved green crackers bearing QR codes, available from October 18 to 20 at designated sites identified by the District Magistrates and senior police officials.
The high-level meetings saw participation from Divisional Commissioner Neeraj Semwal, Special Commissioner of Police Ravindra Yadav, Delhi Pollution Control Committee Chairman Sandeep Kumar, along with senior officers from NEERI, MCD, NDMC, and other concerned agencies.
Sirsa said, “This Diwali, retailers are also our partners in spreading awareness. They must inform buyers that only green crackers are permitted and explain why the Supreme Court has wisely restricted their use to two hours in the evening and one hour in the morning for two days only.”
The Delhi Police have been directed to process temporary sale license applications within two days, ensuring timely readiness.
After Diwali, retailers will be given two days to return or safely dispose of unsold stock of green firecrackers, ensuring that restrictions are reinstated immediately.
Reinforcing the message of responsible celebration, the Minister said, “This is a moment of shared accountability. Delhi’s people wanted permission—now we must show discipline. Together, let’s celebrate Diwali joyfully but responsibly, by following the Supreme Court’s guidelines.”
According to the minister, the Delhi government will continue monitoring AQI levels and submit daily reports to the CPCB and the court in line with its directives.