Despite ban on firecrackers, there is more to celebrate this Diwali

It's difficult to get a unanimous answer to this question. People who revel by burning crackers certainly will miss the joy. For others, the SC decision has come as a boon.

Will the Supreme Court ban on the sale of firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR till November 1 dampen the spirit of the festive season?

It's difficult to get a unanimous answer to this question. People who revel by burning crackers certainly will miss the joy. For others, the Sc decision has come as a boon.

Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan welcomed the apex court's order and urged people to abide by the SC guidelines and "give green Diwali and our environment a chance".

Greenpeace India also welcomed the SC decision, saying the verdict might provide some relief from the episodic air pollution spikes in the city in October i.e. during Diwali.

Earthen lamps

A woman potter makes earthen lamps ahead of Diwali festival, on the outskrits of Jammu on Monday. PTI Photo

Earthen lamps

Earthen lamps being readied ahead of Diwali festival in Jammu on Monday. PTI Photo

Blind student packing candles

A blind student packing candles ahead of Diwali Bazaar of the Blind Relief Association in New Delhi. The Association is hosting its annual event "Diwali Bazaar" from 10 to 16 October. PTI Photo

Packing candles for Diwali Bazaar

A Blind worker and a student making candles for Diwali Bazaar of the Blind Relief Association in New Delhi. The Association is hosting its annual event "Diwali Bazaar" from 10 to 16 October. PTI Photo

Gift envelops

Blind students making gift envelops for Diwali Bazaar of the Blind Relief Association in New Delhi. The Association is hosting its annual event "Diwali Bazaar" from 10 to 16 October. PTI Photo