The Supreme Court has reserved its decision on the sale of green crackers in Delhi for Diwali. Traders are welcoming it, while some citizens are demanding that health be prioritized. There are fears of an illegal market if permission is not granted.
NEW DELHI: Just a week before Diwali, the Supreme Court has indicated that it might permit the sale of green crackers in Delhi. The Court's final order could be pronounced on Monday. This development has created an atmosphere of both anticipation and concern in the city.
Many residents have welcomed the potential return of fireworks, calling them an essential part of the festival. Conversely, health and pollution-conscious individuals are expressing concern that this might once again pave the way for polluting and noisy crackers.
Curbing Black Marketing with Green Crackers
Rajeev Kumar Jain, a member of the Delhi Firecracker Traders Association, stated that permitting green crackers could curb black marketing and provide people with safer alternatives. He mentioned that the Supreme Court indicated that illegal trade might flourish if permission is not granted.
According to Jain, green crackers emit 20-30% fewer harmful particles compared to traditional crackers. This move will promote new and safer options, ensuring both safety and control during festivals.
Green Cracker Production Begins in Delhi-NCR
Even before the Supreme Court's order, certified manufacturers were allowed to produce green crackers in Delhi-NCR in September. Manufacturers welcomed this as a positive step.
Despite a complete ban last Diwali, widespread use of traditional crackers was observed. This time, the sale of green crackers will provide legal options in the market, giving people the opportunity to choose cleaner and more controlled alternatives.
Health and Pollution Concerns with Green Crackers
However, experts state that green crackers also contain some harmful elements. Given Delhi's already strained pollution control system, monitoring them could be challenging.
Parents of young children and health organizations have raised concerns that green crackers will continue to pose a risk to people with asthma and lung diseases. Neha Jain, a mother of two, stated, “Polluted air doesn't care whether a cracker is labeled 'green' or not. Children's safety should come first.”
Growing Demand for Green Crackers Across India
According to Rajeev Kumar Jain, there is a huge demand for green crackers across India. Innovations have led to the development of new ranges that control emissions while retaining the traditional effects.
Not just Diwali, but at least 20 festivals throughout the year in India involve the use of fireworks. From this perspective, the need for controlled and safer alternatives is continuously growing.
