Green Firecrackers Revive Delhi's Diwali Spirit: Supreme Court Approves Eco-Friendly Celebrations

New Delhi's festive spirit was rekindled on Sunday as markets buzzed with activity following the Supreme Court's decision to allow certified green firecrackers for Diwali celebrations.

At the bustling Sadar Bazar, one of the city's largest wholesale markets, crowds gathered outside firecracker shops, forming long queues as families eagerly waited to purchase eco-friendly crackers for the festival. Children accompanied their parents, visibly excited about the prospect of celebrating Diwali with fireworks once again.

Traders diligently served customers while ensuring every product displayed the NEERI certification and scanner code, confirming their status as approved green crackers. This verification process reassured buyers about the environmental compliance of their purchases.

"The Supreme Court's decision to permit green firecrackers has brought back Diwali's true essence," remarked Vishwanand Singh, a customer at the market. "This festival holds special significance for us, and celebrating without crackers in recent years felt incomplete. These eco-friendly alternatives provide the perfect balance—preserving both tradition and environmental consciousness," he added, noting that he exclusively purchased green-certified products.

Firecracker vendors expressed relief after enduring substantial financial losses during previous years when complete bans were enforced. One shopkeeper at Sadar Bazar explained, "The Court's approval has finally allowed us to conduct business openly this season. Despite overwhelming demand, our inventory remains limited due to the last-minute announcement. All available stock carries proper NEERI certification and authentication codes."

Gurmeet Singh, who traveled from Durgapur specifically to purchase firecrackers at Sadar Bazar, shared his family's renewed enthusiasm. "For four consecutive years, our celebrations were subdued—not just Diwali but all festivals. Now that restrictions have been eased, you can imagine the joy this brings, especially to our children."

On October 15, the Supreme Court issued its ruling permitting the sale and use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region under controlled conditions, striking a balance between cultural celebrations and environmental protection.

To ensure compliance with these guidelines, district authorities have partnered with Delhi Police to form dedicated patrol teams led by sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs). These teams will monitor markets and residential areas to verify that only approved firecrackers are being sold and used during the festival season.