The long-standing debate over firecrackers in Delhi has recently seen a new development, with the Supreme Court indicating a potential temporary lifting of the ban. While the specifics of any relaxation are still being determined, it appears Delhi might witness the legal use of fireworks this year. However, the issue of firecrackers and their impact on the city is far from a recent concern; its roots can be traced back to 1961.
In January of that year, the Deputy Ganj Committee, representing a key industrial market association in Delhi’s Sadar Bazar, formally lodged a complaint about the pervasive noise pollution caused by the widespread use of fireworks during festivals and other celebrations. This proposal to curb firecracker usage was reportedly forwarded to the Ministry of Works, Housing, and Supply for consideration, though it was ultimately not approved by the government.
Historical Concerns Over Noise Pollution
The committee’s letter to the then chief commissioner of Delhi highlighted the distress caused by the deafening sound of high-decibel firecrackers, particularly affecting individuals with heart conditions. The members vividly described the experience as akin to “a complete warfare” going on outside, lamenting that authorities seemed indifferent to the situation.
The Supreme Court first implemented a ban on firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR region around 2014-15, citing escalating pollution levels. Despite the ban in subsequent years, the city has continued to experience smoke-filled skies, with the sound of fireworks often persisting from evening until the early hours of the morning.
In a recent observation, the Supreme Court indicated it might lift the ban temporarily, stating it would be confined to specific time limits, just before Diwali. This remark came as the court considered petitions seeking permission for the manufacture and sale of “green” firecrackers in Delhi-NCR.
Why the Ban Wasn’t Enforced in 1961
In 1961, Delhi’s population was approximately 26 lakh, a stark contrast to the city’s current population exceeding 2 crore. Despite the committee’s suggestions, which included a complete ban on high-decibel crackers and a restriction on fireworks after 10 pm, the government decided against a total ban.
The government’s response, detailed in a letter from the Ministry of Works, Housing, and Supply, stated that a complete ban was unnecessary. It pointed out that cracker manufacturing was already regulated under the Indian Explosives Act and Rules. Furthermore, it was noted that cracker sizes had been reduced in 1958 to minimize noise. The government suggested that the issue could be managed through increased police vigilance and by limiting firecracker usage to specific hours.
At that time, Delhi did not have a chief minister, as the legislative assembly had been dissolved in 1956. The city was administered by the Chief Commissioner under the direct authority of the President of India until the establishment of the Delhi Metropolitan Council in 1966.