Delhi Government Bans Firecrackers for New Year Celebrations; Check Full Details

The Delhi government declared on Thursday that all firecrackers of any kind would be prohibited in the nation's capital, effective January 1, 2025, and with immediate effect throughout the year.

A government directive in this regard states that firecrackers will not be allowed to be sold, stored, or used in any way.

Delhi Bans Firecrackers for New Year Celebrations

The Delhi government told the Supreme Court during the hearing on Thursday that firecrackers are completely prohibited due to the city's rising air pollution. 

According to the Delhi government's directive, the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi would permanently prohibit the production, sale, storage, and detonation of any kind of firecracker in accordance with Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Rising Air Pollution in Delhi

Delhi has extremely high levels of air pollution, particularly in the winter, and particulate matter concentrations (PM 2.5 and PM 10) far surpass the recommended limits for air quality. According to Subsection (1) of Section 19 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the entire Union Territory of Delhi has been designated as an Air Pollution Control Area," the decision also stated.

Given the concerning circumstances, it was stated that igniting firecrackers over the holiday season contributes to air pollution. Thus, in accordance with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Delhi government has banned the sale and detonation of any fireworks in the National Capital Territory of Delhi as of 2020.

Total Prohibition on Firecracker

In light of previous instances of air quality degradation from October to January, the National Capital Region of Delhi has banned the production, storage, and sale of all kinds of firecrackers for the upcoming years. The directives have been expanded to include a total prohibition on firecracker bursting and distribution, including online marketing platforms.

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