A week before Diwali, the Supreme Court hinted that it would permit the selling of green crackers in Delhi, causing a mixture of excitement and trepidation.
On Monday, the highest court is anticipated to render its decision.While many locals applauded the idea of fireworks returning to the sky, describing them as a necessary component of joyous occasions, others voiced worries that lax enforcement might once more allow for more common, noisier, and polluting crackers, transforming the city into a "gas chamber and boom box."
Store owners stated that "others are selling it" even though they didn't have any firecrackers, green or not, in stock.
After five years, the permission which is likely to be granted would allow crackers to be exploded at Diwali, Gurpurab, and Christmas once again.
Although green firecrackers are made to produce 20–30% less particulate matter than traditional ones, scientists contend that they nonetheless release dangerous pollutants and are challenging to properly monitor.
They caution that, considering Delhi's already overburdened pollution control systems, enforcing such selective permits may prove difficult.
Last Wednesday, the SC allowed certified producers to produce green crackers in Delhi-NCR by reserving its order for their sale, which it had previously made in September.
Recalling how a total prohibition during the previous Diwali led to the widespread use of traditional fireworks despite restrictions, manufacturers applauded the trend.
Reintroducing green crackers to the market, they contend, might aid in formalising the industry and lowering illicit production.
The action would discourage black selling and promote safer alternatives, said Rajeev Kumar Jain, a member of the Delhi Fireworks Traders Association.
"The Chief Justice stated that a mafia would be formed if crackers were prohibited for a reason.
Allowing green crackers gives people safer and cleaner options, but those who are involved in illegal work must face the law.
Firecrackers can have checks and balances, just like food has FSSAI certification and jewellery has hallmarking.
