India's top judicial body has given the green light the sale and use of crackers believed to be less polluting during the upcoming Diwali season, even as air quality readings in capital Delhi reach the hazardous category.
Pyrotechnics have been banned in Delhi starting from 2020, as they significantly contribute to the annual air pollution crisis the metropolis faces.
The termed environmentally safe pyrotechnics, which the judiciary approved on this week, are designed to release 20-30% less pollutants than conventional versions and produce very little residue, as stated by their makers.
Yet critics argue that even though less harmful, they still release toxic substances into the air and adversely impact the environment.
The Supreme Court's ruling was issued on a occasion when pollution levels in Delhi were significantly above the recommended limits suggested by the WHO.
Based on the CPCB's website, most parts of the capital on Wednesday morning recorded PM2.5 concentrations – tiny particles in the atmosphere – ranging from 300 and 400.
These fine particles are highly risky – they can penetrate far into the lungs and pose significant health risks. In several of the worst-hit regions, the levels exceeded the 400-mark.
The government's AQI, when these readings cross 300, they can cause breathing problems in individuals exposed for extended durations. Readings exceeding 400 can affect even those in good health and have severe impacts on vulnerable groups such as children, the aged and those with existing health conditions.
Air quality deterioration is a annual problem that Delhi and many other parts of northern India face every cold season.
The pollution deteriorates due to reduced air movement, traffic pollution and stubble burning in neighbouring states.
And the extensive bursting of festive firecrackers throughout the festival worsens the situation. Although there has been a ban on pyrotechnics for the previous half-decade, enforcement on the local level has remained weak.
Residents often complain of the atmosphere being too dangerous to inhale on the day after Diwali.
Analysts state that this year we might witness pollution levels deteriorate, especially since the public are allowed to ignite green crackers.
In the recent order, the top court has additionally issued a list of detailed guidelines on when and how these crackers could be sold and used.
The court declared the distribution would be permitted from the weekend and the start of the week from authorised outlets and the pyrotechnics could only be set off in designated areas. The judicial body set a limited window for its use, one hour in the early hours and 120 minutes at night.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions on social media.
Some have supported the decision, saying it allows them to completely celebrate the religious festival.
Others, on the other hand, contend that enforcement of firecracker rules has already been ineffective and permitting them could additionally deteriorate the city's air quality.
In the meantime, in an effort to combat rising pollution levels, the Delhi government on Tuesday enforced the GRAP which prohibits all practices involving the utilization of solid fuels, as well as the use of diesel generators for non-emergency purposes.
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