🔗 Share this article The Top Judiciary Approves Eco-Friendly Firecrackers as Delhi's Pollution Levels Grows Toxic Specialists assert pyrotechnics significantly worsen Delhi's pollution levels during the Diwali celebrations The nation's top court has approved the sale and use of firecrackers believed to be more environmentally friendly for the forthcoming festive period, while pollution levels in the national capital Delhi enter the hazardous range. Pyrotechnics have been prohibited in Delhi since 2020, as they greatly contribute to the yearly pollution problem the metropolis experiences. The so-called environmentally safe pyrotechnics, which the court approved on Wednesday, are engineered to emit 20-30% less pollutants than conventional versions and generate very little residue, according to their makers. However opponents contend that even though reduced-risk, they nonetheless discharge dangerous particles into the air and negatively affect air quality. Critical Pollution Levels Recorded in Delhi The top court's decision was issued on a day when air quality in Delhi were drastically above the recommended limits suggested by the global health body. As per the national pollution agency's data, most areas of the capital on that day early hours recorded PM2.5 levels – tiny particles in the air – between 300 and 400. These small particulates are extremely hazardous – they can penetrate far into the respiratory system and present significant health risks. In several of the most affected regions, the readings exceeded the 400 threshold. The official pollution index, when these levels cross 300, they can lead to lung diseases in individuals subjected for extended durations. Levels above 400 can impact even those in good health and have serious impacts on vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with preexisting health conditions. Air quality readings touched severe category in parts of Delhi on that day early hours Annual Pollution Issue in Northern India Air quality deterioration is a regular problem that Delhi and several additional regions of the north face every winter. The pollution worsens due to reduced air movement, vehicular emissions and crop residue fires in adjacent states. And the widespread ignition of festive firecrackers during the festival worsens the condition. Although there has been a prohibition on pyrotechnics for the past five years, implementation on the local level has remained weak. Locals often report of the air being extremely hazardous to inhale on the morning after Diwali. Analysts believe that currently we might witness air quality deteriorate, particularly since people are permitted to use eco-friendly firecrackers. Court Guidelines and Public Response In Wednesday's order, the top court has additionally provided a set of specific instructions on the timing and manner these crackers could be distributed and ignited. The judiciary declared the distribution would be permitted from the weekend and Monday from authorised shops and the pyrotechnics could only be set off in designated zones. The judicial body fixed a limited timeframe for its use, one hour in the morning and 120 minutes at night. The ruling has sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some have supported the move, stating it enables them to fully observe the traditional festival. Critics, however, argue that implementation of firecracker rules has previously been ineffective and permitting them could further deteriorate the capital's air quality. Government Actions to Combat Environmental Crisis In the meantime, in an attempt to combat rising pollution levels, the Delhi government on Tuesday implemented the GRAP which prohibits all activities involving the use of coal and firewood, as well as the operation of backup power sources for non-emergency purposes.