Delhi Imposes Firecracker Ban to Combat Rising Winter Pollution

The Delhi government has announced a comprehensive ban on the manufacturing, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers in the capital until Jan. 1, 2025, in a bid to tackle escalating air pollution.

The Delhi Department of Environment issued the official directive, stating, “There will be a complete ban on all kinds of firecrackers, including those sold via online platforms, up to Jan. 1, 2025, across the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.”

Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, called for public cooperation, stressing the urgent need to control air pollution as winter approaches. “In light of increasing winter pollution, we’ve imposed this ban and urge all residents of Delhi to comply with these measures.”

The ban, now in its fifth consecutive year, will extend through Diwali, a major Hindu festival on Nov. 1, when firecrackers are traditionally used. Authorities cite the significant deterioration of air quality due to firecracker use during the festival, with pollution levels often reaching the “severe-plus emergency” category.

Despite repeated appeals for restraint, firecracker use during Diwali remains a key contributor to Delhi’s toxic air. The capital, one of the most polluted cities in the world, faces additional pollution challenges from industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and stubble burning in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana, which exacerbate the winter air crisis.