New Delhi: Ahead of Diwali 2026, the Supreme Court has permitted the use of green firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR region for limited hours on November 7 and 8. A bench comprising Justices M. M. Sundresh and Prasanna B. Varale directed that green crackers may be burst only between 6:00 am and 7:00 am and 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the two designated days. The court clarified that the temporary relaxation has been granted only for certified green firecrackers, while the complete ban on conventional firecrackers will be reinstated from November 9, 2026, in an effort to balance festive celebrations with public health and environmental concerns.

The apex court also imposed strict restrictions to protect sensitive areas and vulnerable groups. It ordered that no firecrackers of any kind should be burst within a 300-metre radius of hospitals, nursing homes, primary health centres, district hospitals, old-age homes and officially notified silence zones. In addition, the court prohibited the manufacture and sale of series firecrackers (ladis) and garlands, while reaffirming that firecrackers containing barium or those not certified as green by CSIR-NEERI would remain completely banned. Manufacturers holding valid approvals have been allowed to produce only certified green crackers between November 2 and November 6.

The Supreme Court further directed authorities across Delhi-NCR to intensify enforcement measures against the manufacture, transportation and sale of illegal conventional firecrackers. It stressed that only green crackers approved by CSIR-NEERI and PESO should be available in the market during the permitted period. The order is aimed at reducing air pollution during the festive season while allowing limited celebrations under regulated conditions. Officials have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of the guidelines and prevent the circulation of banned firecrackers throughout the National Capital Region.