Supreme Court clears next-gen green crackers, reviews barium variants

The Supreme Court has allowed the manufacture and sale of specified next-generation joint green crackers, offering some relief to the firecracker industry while maintaining environmental safeguards. However, the court has kept barium-containing cracker variants pending further scientific review and assessment.

The decision provides a middle ground between environmental concerns and industry interests, permitting certain approved formulations of green crackers to proceed to market. These next-generation crackers are designed to produce lower levels of pollution compared to traditional fireworks, using alternative chemical compositions to reduce harmful emissions.

The Centre and relevant expert bodies have been granted until October 15 to complete their evaluation of barium-containing variants. The extension allows for comprehensive scientific analysis of whether these formulations meet the requisite environmental and health standards before clearance.

The Supreme Court's interim order reflects ongoing efforts to balance the celebration of festivals with environmental protection. Green crackers, which significantly reduce air and noise pollution compared to conventional fireworks, have been promoted as a more sustainable alternative for use during Diwali and other occasions in India.

The court's decision is expected to provide clarity to manufacturers regarding approved products while protecting public health and environmental interests pending the final assessment of barium variants.