As pollution in Delhi reaches levels unimaginable, the Supreme Court allowed sale and use of firecrackers with stringent conditions. On Diwali, crackers will be allowed for two hours, from 8 pm to 10 pm, the court said. With the government now pushing new initiatives to curtail hazardous air, a petition called for the countrywide ban citing the ill effects on environment and public health.
Firecracker manufacturers had earlier told the court that use of crackers should not be completely banned as it will cost thousands their livelihood. They have also contested that crackers are not the sole reason for increase in air pollution and factors like wind and temperature also contribute to it.
Here are the Highlights on Supreme Court verdict on Firecrackers: