As the eve of Diwali approaches, the age-old tradition of bursting firecrackers is met with a dilemma shaped by legal restrictions and environmental responsibility. Tomorrow marks the Festival of Lights, yet the uncertainty prevails – to burst or not to burst crackers, and if so, under what limitations. The Supreme Court, in a recent clarification, emphasized that its orders to minimize air and noise pollution from firecrackers extend beyond Delhi National Capital Region to encompass all states in the country.
Justice M.M. Sundresh, on the Bench, highlighted the need for moderation in celebrations, emphasizing that joy should not come at the expense of the environment. Justice A.S. Bopanna drew attention to the concerning behavior of adults, who, in their enthusiasm, tend to surpass reasonable limits, disregarding the pollution and discomfort caused by excessive firecracker use. He aptly noted, “Due to awareness spread in school, children do not burst crackers much. It is the adults who do it.”
The challenge of enforcing time restrictions also emerged in the discussion, with Justice Bopanna expressing the ease with which people bypass set limits. The court underscored the importance of sensitizing the public and fostering a collective consciousness to address the environmental impact of Diwali celebrations.
This dilemma gains significance in light of a recent application highlighting a surge in pollution in Rajasthan despite the Supreme Court’s restrictive orders. The counsel for Rajasthan stressed that the desire to protect the environment must be embedded in the “collective consciousness of society,” urging every citizen to celebrate with fewer crackers.
Governments, the applicants argued, cannot solely rely on individual citizens to protect the environment. Authorities, entrusted with the responsibility of preserving the environment, must proactively take measures to ensure clean air, not just during festive seasons but consistently.
As the nation grapples with this delicate balance, the Supreme Court’s endorsement of green crackers emerges as a conscientious alternative. Developed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) in 2018, these low-emission crackers are free of harmful chemicals and manufactured from alternative raw materials, leaving a smaller carbon footprint and posing lesser health risks.
While green crackers are not entirely non-polluting, they present a commendable step towards a more sustainable celebration. As we gear up for Diwali, let our choices reflect a harmonious blend of tradition and environmental responsibility. Wishing you all a Happy and Safe Diwali!
“May the lights of Diwali brighten your home and heart, bringing joy without compromising the well-being of our planet. Wishing you a Happy and Eco-Friendly Diwali!”
