Daily News Analysis ‘Supreme Court Allows ‘Green Crackers’ in Delhi-NCR on a Test Basis’ : 17 October

Rationale Behind Relaxation:

• Ineffectiveness of total ban: The SC observed that a complete ban led to illegal smuggling and widespread use of polluting firecrackers.

• Balanced approach: A regulated relaxation could yield better enforcement and less pollution.

• Technological alternative: “Green crackers” reportedly reduce particulate emissions by 30–80%.

• Economic consideration: Recognized the livelihood crisis of workers in the firecracker industry.

• Constitutional balance: The Court aimed to reconcile the Right to Livelihood (Article 19(1)(g)) with the Right to Life (Article 21).

What Are ‘Green Crackers’?

• Developed by: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI).

• Characteristics:

• • • Do not contain harmful chemicals like barium nitrate, arsenic, lithium, or mercury.
    • Release water vapour or dust suppressants to trap particulate matter.
    • Reduce PM2.5 emissions by at least 30%.
    • Noise level capped at 120 decibels.
    • Packaging bears a green logo and a QR code for authenticity.

• These are less polluting, not pollution-free.

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court of India (SC) has partially relaxed its absolute ban on the sale and use of firecrackers in Delhi-NCR.