The Bombay High Court has clarified that its restrictions on bursting firecrackers on public streets apply throughout the year and to all festivals across Maharashtra. The Court also prohibited firecracker use in silence zones and directed authorities to launch public awareness campaigns and establish dedicated complaint mechanisms.
A Division Bench of Justices G. S. Kulkarni and Dr. Neela Gokhale, on October 15, 2026, reiterated that festival celebrations cannot override citizens’ rights to a clean and healthy environment. The Court was hearing suo motu public interest proceedings concerning noise and environmental pollution caused by loud music systems, amplifiers and firecrackers during festivals.
In its earlier order dated September 22, 2026, the High Court had imposed a total ban on bursting firecrackers during festivities on public streets and roads. It had also issued directions to regulate sound systems, monitor noise levels and strengthen enforcement.
The Court clarified that these directions were not limited to Ganpati celebrations but applied to all festivals throughout Maharashtra. The matter was being heard alongside other connected public interest proceedings and a criminal writ petition concerning the regulation of noise and environmental pollution.
The Bench expressed concern over worsening air quality in Mumbai and other cities, noting that firecracker smoke and toxic emissions add to existing pollution. It observed that children, senior citizens, students and people suffering from illnesses are particularly affected.
The Court emphasised that environmental protection is linked to the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
“The concern is on the regulation and control of the use of firecrackers as the law would mandate from the perspective of the local conditions,” the Bench observed.
It also stressed the need for preventive measures rather than action only after violations and complaints.
The High Court directed the State Government, municipal corporations and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to establish an awareness mechanism within one week. Authorities must publicise the restrictions, encourage the use of green crackers, create dedicated complaint channels and appoint nodal officers to coordinate enforcement.
The Court also directed authorities to equip field staff with decibel meters and other devices to measure noise and air pollution. It adjourned the proceedings to November 25, 2026, granting liberty to the parties to apply.
