October 16, 2025: Will SC’s firecracker relaxation worsen Delhi’s air?

For this episode of Aaj Ka AQI, Newslaundry visited the Supreme Court, which permitted the use of green firecrackers in Delhi NCR between October 18 and 20. The court directed that the district administration and police must ensure that firecrackers are burst at designated locations between 6 and 7 am and 8 and 10 pm.

The AQI at ITO, the nearest recording station to the Supreme Court, was 231 (poor category), while PM2.5 at 231 and PM10 at 139. Meanwhile, Anand Vihar recorded the worst air quality in Delhi, with an AQI of 362, PM2.5 at 262, and PM10 at 362.

While the court called its order on firecrackers a “balanced approach” between celebrating festivities and protecting the environment, will it exacerbate the pollution problem in the national capital? 

Watch. 

This show is part of a collaborative campaign to tackle air pollution. Here’s how you can join the Fight To Breathe. Click here to power this campaign.