New Delhi/IBNS, Oct. 15 -- The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed the bursting of green crackers in Delhi-NCR during Diwali celebrations, ending weeks of speculation over whether the blanket ban on firecrackers would continue this year.

The top court said the relaxation would be a temporary measure, permitting only low-emission, NEERI-approved green crackers between October 18 and 21, and that too within restricted hours - from 6 am to 7 am and 8 pm to 10 pm.

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, while pronouncing the order, said the court was taking a "balanced approach" between environmental protection and the public's festive sentiments.

"Since firecrackers are smuggled in from outside Delhi-NCR, they cause more damage than green firecra...