India's top court has allowed the sale and bursting of firecrackers believed to be less polluting during the upcoming Diwali festival, even as air quality levels enter very poor category in capital Delhi.
Crackers have been banned in Delhi since 2020, as they significantly contribute to the air pollution crisis the city faces each year.
The so-called green crackers, which the court allowed on Wednesday, are designed to emit 20-30% less pollutants than traditional ones and generate minimal ash, their makers say.
But critics say that even though less harmful, they still release toxic substances into the air and adversely impact the air quality.
The Supreme Court's decision came on a day when air quality in Delhi was 25-to-30 times worse than the safe levels recommended by the World Health Organization.
