Supreme Court Endorses 'Gen-2' Joined Green Crackers Ahead of Diwali Under NEERI Conditions

The Supreme Court ruled out a nationwide firecracker ban on September 30 and accepted CSIR-NEERI's recommendation to permit 'Gen-2' joined green crackers with reduced emissions.

NEERI reported that the redesigned variants reduce particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5 pollution by 45% to 60% through water-releasing compounds and restricted barium usage.

The court maintained noise limits within 125 dB(AI)/145 dB(C) peak and stated it would consider fixed time windows for bursting rather than permitting a 24-hour window.