SC Raps Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, UP Govts Demands Response On Year-Long Ban on Firecrackers

In a decisive move to combat escalating air and noise pollution, the Supreme Court on Thursday directed the governments of Delhi and neighboring National Capital Region (NCR) states—Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan—to make a definitive decision on imposing a year-round ban on firecrackers. The bench, comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, mandating that the states submit their resolutions to the apex court promptly.

Highlighting the dual threat posed by firecrackers, the bench stated that a comprehensive ban is essential not only to mitigate air pollution but also to reduce noise pollution. The justices noted that the matter of prohibiting firecracker usage in NCR states remains unresolved and requires immediate attention. They asserted, “We direct the concerned state governments to place their decisions regarding a complete ban on the use of firecrackers throughout the year.”

Clarifying the scope of the proposed prohibition, the Supreme Court specified that the ban would encompass the manufacture, storage, sale, and distribution of firecrackers. This comprehensive approach aims to eliminate the sources contributing to pollution.

The court’s directives came during a hearing focused on the persistent air pollution crisis in the national capital. In a bid to further alleviate environmental degradation, the justices suggested that government departments transition to electric vehicles, thereby setting a precedent for sustainable practices.

Reaffirming its commitment to existing pollution control measures, the Supreme Court ordered the continued enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) until further notice. Additionally, the court instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CQAM) to implement modified strategies aimed at enhancing Delhi’s air quality.

This landmark directive underscores the Supreme Court’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding public health and the environment, urging state governments to take immediate and decisive action against the detrimental effects of firecrackers.