Mumbai, October 2026 : The Bombay High Court on Thursday clarified that its order prohibiting the bursting of firecrackers on public roads and streets would remain in force throughout the year and apply to all festivals, including Diwali.
A bench of Justices G.S. Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale expressed concern over the harmful effects of firecrackers, observing that toxic pollution affects everyone, particularly children and senior citizens. The court also noted that air pollution levels generally rise after Diwali.
The court had imposed a complete ban on bursting firecrackers on public roads during Ganesh Chaturthi last month, citing concerns over air and noise pollution. It had taken suo motu cognisance of noise pollution during festivals.
During Thursday’s hearing, the bench voiced concern over the apparent failure of government authorities to effectively regulate the use of firecrackers in public spaces.
“There is a state of lawlessness. We are all bound by the Constitution, and the rights of citizens are paramount. The problem is the non-following of law,” the court observed.
The bench directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to issue public notices clarifying that bursting firecrackers in public places, including streets, lanes and footpaths, would not be permitted.
The court also emphasised the need for awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the harmful effects of pollution caused by firecrackers.
With Diwali approaching, the bench reiterated the importance of ensuring strict compliance with the restrictions. The directions are intended to address concerns over deteriorating air quality and noise pollution during festive celebrations.
The clarification makes clear that the restriction on bursting firecrackers in public streets is not limited to a particular festival but applies throughout the year.
