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The nation's top judicial body has authorized the distribution and ignition of crackers considered lower-emission during the upcoming Diwali period, even as pollution readings in the national capital Delhi enter the severe range.

Pyrotechnics have been prohibited in Delhi since 2020, as they significantly worsen the annual air pollution crisis the city experiences.

The so-called eco-friendly firecrackers, which the judiciary approved on this week, are designed to release 20-30% fewer harmful substances than conventional versions and produce minimal residue, according to their manufacturers.

But opponents argue that although reduced-risk, they nonetheless release harmful chemicals into the air and adversely affect air quality.

Critical Air Quality Readings Observed in Delhi

The top court's decision was issued on a occasion when pollution levels in Delhi were drastically above the safe levels suggested by the global health body.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board's data, most parts of the city on that day early hours recorded PM2.5 levels – tiny particulate matter in the air – ranging from 300 and 400.

These small particulates are highly risky – they can enter deep into the lungs and present significant medical dangers. In some of the most affected areas, the readings crossed the 400 threshold.

The government's AQI, when these readings exceed 300, they can cause respiratory illnesses in people exposed for long periods. Levels exceeding 400 can impact even healthy individuals and have severe effects on vulnerable groups such as minors, the elderly and those with preexisting medical issues.

Recurring Environmental Crisis in Delhi

Air quality deterioration is a recurring crisis that Delhi and several additional parts of northern India experience every winter.

The air quality deteriorates due to reduced air movement, traffic pollution and crop residue fires in adjacent regions.

And the extensive bursting of festive firecrackers throughout Diwali exacerbates the condition. Although there has been a prohibition on firecrackers for the past five years, enforcement on the ground has remained inadequate.

Locals often complain of the air being extremely dangerous to breathe on the day after the celebrations.

Analysts believe that currently we might witness pollution levels worsen, particularly now that the public are permitted to set off eco-friendly firecrackers.

Court Guidelines and Public Response

In the recent order, the top court has also provided a list of specific instructions on when and how these crackers could be distributed and ignited.

The court declared the distribution would be permitted between the weekend and the start of the week from licensed outlets and the firecrackers could only be set off in specified zones. The judicial body fixed a limited timeframe for its use, one hour in the morning and two hours at evening.

The decision has generated mixed responses on online platforms.

Some have supported the move, saying it allows them to completely celebrate the traditional festival.

Others, on the other hand, contend that enforcement of firecracker regulations has already been weak and allowing them could additionally deteriorate the capital's air quality.

Government Measures to Combat Pollution

Meanwhile, in an attempt to tackle increasing pollution levels, the local administration on Tuesday enforced the pollution control strategy which bans all activities involving the use of coal and firewood, as well as the operation of backup power sources for non-emergency purposes.