India Imposes Strict Time Limits on Diwali Green Crackers

The Supreme Court of India has permitted the manufacture, sale, and bursting of certified green firecrackers in the Delhi-National Capital Region for a limited window during Diwali. Under a ruling by Justices M M Sundresh and Prasanna B Varale, green crackers may be used on November 7 and 8, 2026, between 6 a.m.–7 a.m. and 8 p.m.–10 p.m., before a complete ban on all fireworks resumes on November 9. The court established no-cracker zones within 300 meters of hospitals, schools, and old-age homes, and prohibited online sales to curb illegal trade.

In a separate regional action, Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap issued an order restricting fireworks to 8 p.m.–10 p.m. on November 8. This order, following National Green Tribunal guidelines, also sets specific timeframes for Gurpurab on November 24 and upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

To ensure compliance, the Supreme Court mandated product-specific QR codes and tasked the Central Pollution Control Board with monitoring air quality. In Shimla, the Senior Superintendent of Police and district magistrates are responsible for enforcing the restrictions. The Supreme Court noted that while a blanket ban might be ideal, it currently lacks the data to determine if such a measure is the best solution for environmental pollution.