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New Delhi: The Delhi government has begun preparations to manage air quality and ensure compliance with pollution control norms during the upcoming Diwali elections.
According to reports, multiple departments have been directed to coordinate enforcement and awareness efforts to curb the use of traditional, high-emission firecrackers. The government has prepared a detailed action plan to be implemented immediately if the court decides to partially lift the existing restrictions.
A dedicated control room will be set up to receive complaints regarding violations during the festive period. Citizens will be able to report the sale or use of banned firecrackers through official platforms including the Sameer app, the Green Delhi app and other online portals.
Enforcement teams comprising personnel from the Delhi Police, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will be deployed across the city. These teams will monitor markets and residential areas to prevent the sale and use of non-compliant firecrackers that emit higher levels of pollutants.
Also, large-scale awareness campaigns will be rolled out to educate residents about permissible types of green firecrackers and the environmental hazards associated with traditional ones.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said “If the ban on bursting firecrackers is lifted, we will immediately hold a meeting to take necessary steps in light of the court order."
The Supreme Court, while hearing the matter on Friday said thar a total ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR was “neither practical nor ideal." The bench observed that a limited relaxation, with proper safeguards could help balance the need for celebration with environmental concerns. The Court remarked that a five-day relaxation might be permitted but is yet to issue a final order.
Earlier, the Delhi government had sought limited relaxation, allowing firecrackers to be burst for one hour each in the morning and evening on Diwali and Gurupurab.
