Supreme Court Bans Firecrackers in India, Green Firecrackers

The Supreme Court has issued a significant clarification in its efforts to combat pollution, extending its 2021 ruling, which permitted the use of only “green firecrackers,” to apply not only to the Delhi-NCR region but nationwide. During the hearing, the bench emphasized that fireworks are now primarily ignited by adults rather than children and emphasized that environmental protection is a collective responsibility.

Supreme Court Bans Firecrackers in India 2023

The Supreme Court of India has enforced a ban on firecrackers in several parts of the country as a measure to combat air pollution and protect public health. The ban restricts the use of firecrackers, particularly those containing hazardous substances like barium salts, and enforces designated time slots for bursting firecrackers during festivals.

The Supreme court has emphasized that its 2021 ruling on “green firecrackers” applies nationwide, not just in Delhi-NCR. This decision comes in response to rising concerns about deteriorating air quality and the harmful effects of fireworks on the environment. It underscores the collective responsibility of citizens in curbing pollution.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to Join

SC Directions Regulating Firecrackers

On November 7, 2023, the Supreme Court of India clarified that its earlier directions against the use of barium and banned chemicals in firecrackers are applicable across the country, binding all states and not just the Delhi-National Capital Region. The order came days before the Diwali celebrations on November 12.

The Supreme Court also directed state governments to control air and noise pollution. The bench said, “At this juncture, no specific order will be necessary as this court has passed several orders, where steps have been indicated to minimize and avoid air, as well as noise, pollution”.
The Supreme Court had passed a slew of directions in 2021 to ensure that banned chemicals are not used in crackers ahead of Diwali. The bench also clarified that there is no total ban on firecrackers, and only firecrackers with barium salts are banned.

Reasons for Nationwide Ban on Firecrackers

The Indian Supreme Court has extended its 2021 order, permitting the use of only green firecrackers, to encompass the entire country, not just the Delhi-NCR region. The move is a vital step to combat pollution.

During the hearing, the bench noted that fireworks are now primarily ignited by adults, with children participating less. The court emphasized that safeguarding the environment is a collective duty that all citizens share.

Addressing a petition urging the Rajasthan government to adhere to court orders banning firecrackers containing barium salts and reducing air and noise pollution during festivals, the bench, comprising Justices AS Bopanna and MM Sundresh, emphasized that no new directions were necessary. The court reiterated that its orders are universally binding and urged Rajasthan to comply with its previous directives.

Supreme Court Stand on Firecrackers in India

The Indian Supreme Court has imposed a nationwide ban on firecrackers, extending its 2021 order, which previously allowed only “green firecrackers,” to apply to the entire country, beyond just Delhi-NCR. The decision aims to combat pollution and protect the environment. The court emphasized that safeguarding the environment is a collective responsibility and not solely the court’s duty, and it reiterated the need for citizens to take proactive steps in reducing air and noise pollution during festivals and beyond.

In a significant ruling in 2023, the Indian Supreme Court has imposed a ban on the use of firecrackers across the nation. This comprehensive ban extends beyond the Delhi-NCR region, following the court’s 2021 order permitting only “green firecrackers” to tackle pollution. The decision underlines the pressing need to combat air and noise pollution, particularly during festive periods, and protect the environment. The court emphasized that safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility of all citizens, not just the court’s duty. The ban aims to address growing concerns about deteriorating air quality and the detrimental effects of firecrackers on public health and the ecosystem.

Firecracker Ban in Delhi 2023

In 2023, the Supreme Court of India extended its ban on firecrackers, primarily affecting the Delhi-NCR region, with a particular focus on mitigating air pollution. The ban builds upon the court’s previous rulings to combat pollution during festive seasons, notably Diwali. This decision was made in recognition of the severe air quality issues faced by the region and the need to protect public health and the environment.

Green Firecrackers

“Green firecrackers” represent a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional firecrackers. These firecrackers are designed to reduce the emission of harmful pollutants and minimize noise levels. They achieve this by using less harmful chemicals in their composition, making them a better choice for reducing the environmental impact of fireworks during festivals and celebrations.

Barium Crackers

Barium crackers refer to firecrackers that contain barium salts in their composition. Barium salts are used in fireworks to produce vibrant green colors when ignited. When these firecrackers explode, the barium salts burn, emitting a green hue that adds to the visual appeal of the fireworks display.

While barium salts are effective in creating these visually striking green colors, they have come under scrutiny due to their adverse environmental and health effects. Barium is a heavy metal, and the release of barium compounds into the atmosphere during fireworks can contribute to air pollution. These pollutants can have negative effects on both the environment and human health.

In response to concerns about the environmental impact of fireworks and their contribution to air pollution, some regulatory authorities and courts have imposed restrictions on firecrackers containing barium salts. The aim is to reduce the use of such firecrackers during festivals and celebrations, promoting alternatives that are less harmful to the environment and public health.

Firecrackers Containing Barium Salt

Firecrackers that aim to produce bright green colors, such as green sparklers or green aerial shells, typically contain barium salts in their compositions. When ignited, the barium salts burn and emit a green hue, making them popular for celebrations and events.

Firecrackers and Diwali Festival

Firecrackers have long been an integral part of the Diwali Festival, celebrated with enthusiasm and zeal in India. However, concerns over the environmental and health impacts of firecrackers have grown in recent years. The loud noise and the release of pollutants during Diwali celebrations have prompted governments and environmental authorities to impose bans and restrictions on the use of certain firecrackers.

As a response to these concerns, there is a growing emphasis on using eco-friendly alternatives like “green firecrackers” during Diwali and other festivities. These eco-friendly options aim to provide the joy and excitement of fireworks while reducing their harmful effects on the environment and public health. The ban on firecrackers, especially those containing barium salts, serves as a means to strike a balance between cultural traditions and environmental conservation, addressing the adverse effects of firecrackers on air and noise pollution.

Ban on Firecrackers in India UPSC

The Supreme Court of India has extended its 2021 ruling, allowing only “green firecrackers,” to apply nationwide, beyond Delhi-NCR, to combat air and noise pollution. The court emphasizes that environmental protection is a collective responsibility. Firecrackers primarily ignited by adults and concerns over their environmental impact have led to this decision. In Rajasthan, the court reiterated the need to follow previous directives. The ban aims to protect public health, address air pollution, and balance cultural traditions with ecological responsibility. Barium crackers, which contain barium salts, are under scrutiny for their environmental effects.

Sharing is caring!