Happiness and excitement returned to Delhi’s bustling markets on Sunday as the sale of green firecrackers officially began, ahead of Diwali. This year, the Supreme Court permitted the use of certified eco-friendly firecrackers, aiming to strike a balance between traditional festivities and environmental responsibility. The decision has brought relief not only to families eager to celebrate but also to traders who suffered significant losses over the past few years due to a blanket ban on firecrackers.

Sadar Bazar, one of the city’s busiest wholesale markets, became a hub of festive activity as long queues formed outside firecracker shops. Families, often accompanied by children, waited patiently to purchase eco-friendly crackers for Diwali celebrations. Traders, meanwhile, ensured that every packet carried the NEERI stamp and a scanner code, certifying it as a genuine green firecracker.

“We are really thankful to the Supreme Court for allowing green firecrackers this Diwali,” said Vishwanand Singh, a customer. “Diwali is such a special festival for us, and every year we missed celebrating it fully because of the ban. This initiative is both environment-friendly and brings back the lights and colours that make the festival joyous. I bought only green-labelled crackers this year.”

For shopkeepers, the Supreme Court’s approval has been a welcome reprieve after years of financial strain. One retailer at Sadar Bazar said that traders had faced huge losses due to the previous blanket ban, which restricted the sale and use of firecrackers across the capital.

“Now that the Supreme Court has given its nod, we can sell some crackers openly this year,” the shopkeeper said. “The demand is high, but due to the short notice, stock is limited. Whatever we could collect, we are offering to customers, all with the NEERI stamp and scanner confirming authenticity. It’s a small step, but it helps revive the festive spirit for families and business alike.”

The positive response was not limited to Delhi residents. Gurmeet Singh, who had travelled from Durgapur to buy firecrackers, said the announcement brought back a sense of celebration that had been missing for years.

“For the past four years, we couldn’t celebrate properly—not just Diwali, but any festival,” he said. “Now that the ban has been lifted, you can imagine the happiness we and especially our children are feeling. Seeing them excited to pick their favourite crackers again is priceless.”

The Supreme Court’s decision on October 15 permits the sale and use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) under strictly regulated conditions. Firecrackers can be used only during designated hours, and authorities are enforcing compliance rigorously to prevent misuse.

In preparation for the festivities, district authorities, in coordination with Delhi Police, have deployed patrolling teams headed by area sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs). These teams are tasked with ensuring that only NEERI-certified crackers are sold and used, preventing violations that could compromise air quality or public safety. Officials emphasized that QR codes on packaging would allow for verification of authenticity, ensuring that all crackers comply with environmental standards.

Experts note that while green firecrackers reduce pollution compared to traditional fireworks, responsible usage remains essential. Even certified eco-friendly crackers release some particulate matter, and authorities have urged citizens to celebrate in moderation to protect vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

The sale of green firecrackers this year is seen as a cautious but important step toward restoring festive traditions without significantly impacting air quality. Traders, residents, and local authorities are working together to ensure a balance between celebration and environmental responsibility, reflecting a growing awareness of sustainable practices during cultural events.

For many families, the return of firecrackers to the festive landscape is more than just a matter of tradition—it is a symbolic reclaiming of joy and community spirit after several years of restrictions. Children eagerly selecting crackers, families decorating their homes with lights, and markets bustling with buyers all signal a renewed sense of festivity.

“The festival is not just about fireworks, but they have always added a sense of excitement for children and adults alike,” said Vishwanand Singh. “The green crackers allow us to celebrate fully while being mindful of the environment. We hope this initiative continues in the years ahead.”

As Delhi prepares for Diwali, the city’s markets, authorities, and residents are embracing a new approach that combines celebration with consciousness. The Supreme Court’s approval, combined with active monitoring and compliance enforcement, seeks to ensure that the festival of lights returns safely and sustainably, rekindling the joy that Delhi families have long missed.

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