As Diwali 2026 approaches, the familiar debate around firecrackers returns. While the Supreme Court has steered away from a total ban, strict city-specific rules are in place. Here is a guide to help you celebrate within the rules.
Understanding 'Green Crackers'
The term 'green cracker'
doesn't mean it is entirely eco-friendly, but that it is designed to be less polluting. Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), these crackers have a modified chemical formula to reduce particulate matter emissions by at least 30%. They are made without banned chemicals like lithium, arsenic, mercury, and most notably, barium salts, which are toxic and create significant pollution. To identify a genuine green cracker, look for the official CSIR-NEERI logo and a QR code on the box. Scanning this code should verify the product's manufacturing details. Always buy from licensed sellers, as online sales are prohibited.
Delhi NCR: A Near-Total Ban Continues
The National Capital Region continues to enforce the strictest regulations. As of late October 2026, a complete prohibition on the manufacture, storage, sale, and bursting of all types of firecrackers remains in effect in Delhi. This ban was instituted to combat the severe air pollution that typically engulfs the region during this period. The Supreme Court has been hearing matters related to potential relaxations for certain green crackers, but no permissions have been granted for Delhi-NCR. Authorities are actively seizing illegal firecrackers, and residents are advised not to assume that any product, even if labelled 'green', is legal to buy or use in the capital.
Mumbai: A Strict Time Window for Bursting
In Mumbai, the focus is on limiting the duration of celebrations. Following orders from the Bombay High Court to tackle the city's poor air quality, firecrackers are only permitted to be burst between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. during the Diwali festival. This three-hour window applies across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Furthermore, a ban is in place on bursting any firecrackers on public streets and roads. Authorities have been directed to enforce these rules strictly, especially in designated silence zones like areas near hospitals and schools.
Kolkata: Green Crackers in a Two-Hour Slot
Kolkata is also following a timebound approach, permitting the use of only approved green crackers. Based on previous state Pollution Control Board orders, the window for bursting crackers is expected to be from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Diwali night. Authorities are scheduled to conduct tests on samples of green crackers to ensure they comply with regulations before they can be sold at designated 'Bazi Bazaars'. Police have also reminded organisers of Kali Puja that firecrackers with noise levels above 90 decibels are not permitted.
Chennai and Tamil Nadu: A Split Schedule
Tamil Nadu has a unique approach that accommodates traditional early morning celebrations. For the past few years, the state has permitted bursting crackers in two separate one hour slots : from 6 a m to 7 a m and again from 7 p m to 8 p m on Diwali day. While the official order for 2026 is awaited, this pattern is likely to continue. The rules specify the use of certified green crackers only, and residents are urged to check the final notification from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board before celebrating.
Bengaluru : Emphasis on Eco Friendly Fireworks
The Karnataka government has directed vendors in Bengaluru and across the state to sell only eco friendly or green fireworks. Traders must provide an undertaking to the state pollution control board that they will not stock or sell any crackers containing prohibited heavy metals. While specific timings are generally aligned with the Supreme Court s guideline of 8 p m to 10 p m, citizens are advised to follow local police and municipal notifications for the final confirmation. The focus remains on ensuring compliance through inspections and cancelling the licenses of vendors who violate the rules.
