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Chennai, Oct 15 (IANS) Fireworks hub Sivakasi has lauded the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the sale and bursting of green firecrackers in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) during Diwali, calling it a morale booster for the region which was struggling with the restrictions for years.
The top court on Wednesday allowed the use of low-emission green firecrackers for four days from October 18 to 21 under strict guidelines. The order partially relaxes the earlier complete ban on fireworks imposed in Delhi NCR due to pollution concerns.
“This decision reaffirms our long-standing position that fireworks are not a major cause of pollution in Delhi NCR,” said T. Kannan, general secretary, Indian Fireworks Manufacturers Association (TIFMA).
“This will restore confidence among traders and revive the prospects of the industry. The NCR region, with its large population and vast geography, can significantly contribute to job creation and economic revival for the industry next year.”
Expressing similar sentiments, Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amores Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA) President P. Ganesan said the decision was the “happiest moment” for fireworks manufacturers.
“Allowing bursting of green crackers in Delhi NCR will provide a much-needed boost to manufacturers and create additional jobs for lakhs of workers. NCR alone accounts for about 15 per cent of India’s fireworks market,” he said.
However, Ganesan acknowledged that the timing of the decision left little room for immediate business gains.
“With Diwali just a few days away, it is too late to send fresh consignments from Sivakasi. Northern dealers may divert their existing stocks to meet the demand from NCR,” he said.
President of Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers Association (SIFMA) A. Asaithambi described the decision as “a step forward” after a lengthy legal battle.
He said, “The real impact will be visible next year as the formalities of licensing and distribution of cracker shops will take time. Nevertheless, this is a clear indication that the judiciary recognizes our industry’s efforts towards producing eco-friendly green crackers.”
For Sivakasi, which produces about 90 percent of India’s fireworks, the Supreme Court order has raised hopes that the industry’s brightest season may soon return.
–IANS
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