What are green firecrackers that Delhi-NCR residents can burst this Deepavali

In a big move ahead of Deepavali, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (October 15, 2025), relaxed its earlier blanket prohibition and permitted the sale and use of green firecrackers” in the Delhi–National Capital Region (NCR), subject to stringent conditions. The Bench, comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, ruled that green firecrackers may be burst in the Delhi-NCR region only between October 18 and 21.

Commenting on the same, CJI Gavai said, “We have to take a balanced approach, permitting it in moderation while not compromising with the environment.”

What are greencrackers?

Green firecrackers are a type of firecracker designed to be less polluting and environmentally safer than traditional firecrackers. They were developed in response to growing concerns about air pollution. Green crackers are a compromise solution—allowing people to celebrate with fireworks while reducing environmental and health impacts.

Key Features of Green Firecrackers

Reduced Emissions

Green firecrackers emit 30-35% less particulate matter and air pollutants (like SO₂, NOx, and CO) compared to conventional firecrackers. They do not contain harmful elements such as barium nitrate, which is a major pollutant and health hazard in regular crackers.

Approved by Authorities

Green firecrackers are developed and approved by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in India, particularly NEERI and CEERI labs.

Noise Levels

Talking about the noise level, they adhere to prescribed noise limits

How to identify them?

One can identify them as they are sold with green logos and QR codes that help verify their authenticity.

There are three distinct categories of green firecrackers:  

* SWAS (Safe Water Releaser): These firecrackers release water vapour into the atmosphere to minimise dust emissions. They emit 30% less particulate matter and do not contain sulphur or potassium nitrate. 

* STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker): STAR firecrackers are devoid of potassium nitrate and sulphur, resulting in reduced particulate matter emissions and a lower sound level. 

* SAFAL (Safe Minimal Aluminium): SAFAL firecrackers use less aluminum and more magnesium, producing less noise compared to traditional firecrackers. 

Explained: How green are Deepavali crackers?

Rules surrounding green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR

After Supreme Court permited sale, bursting of green crackers in Delhi-NCR on Deepavali, following things must be adhered to

• The Bench made it clear that the sale of firecrackers through e-commerce platforms would remain strictly prohibited.

• The court premitted the sale of green firecrackers between October 18 and October 21, stipulating that sales must take place only at designated locations.

• The court further restricted their use to the hours between 6-7 am and 8-10 pm on the day before Deepavali and on Deepavali day.

• The court termed this a “temporary measure” and said no firecrackers from outside the NCR region will be allowed.

• Pollution control bodies were directed to monitor the region’s Air Quality Index during this time and file a report.