Mumbai: Bombay High Court Bans Firecrackers on Public Roads, Flags Toxic Pollution
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday ordered a ban on bursting firecrackers on public roads across Maharashtra during festive processions, observing that the practice poses direct safety hazards and drives up toxic air pollution as the state enters the critical post-monsoon period.
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday ordered a complete ban on bursting firecrackers on public roads in Mumbai during festivals, citing concerns over air pollution, noise and safety. The court also directed authorities to take measures to control noise levels during religious processions and act against violations, according to a report.
A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale said festivals and processions can continue, but celebrations cannot come at the expense of citizens' health and legal rights. The court had initiated a suo motu public interest litigation over noise and air pollution during ongoing festival celebrations. Mumbai Police Bans Bursting of Firecrackers From May 11 to June 9 Across City Limits Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions.
Court Bans Firecrackers on Public Roads
The court said there should be no bursting of firecrackers on public roads in Mumbai, pointing to the risks posed to pedestrians and motorists as well as their contribution to air and noise pollution. The bench observed that Mumbai typically begins experiencing worsening air quality and haze around this period of the year. It said preventive measures were necessary rather than relying only on action after violations occur.
The court also said the ban would apply during festivals and directed authorities to take steps to prevent air pollution caused by firecrackers. Bombay High Court Warns Vijay Mallya Against Posting Court Documents on Social Media.
Concerns Over Loudspeakers, DJs and Lasers
The High Court also questioned the use of loudspeakers, DJs and laser beams during religious processions. It said such equipment should not be used in a manner that breaches prescribed noise limits. The bench questioned why processions were sometimes allowed to continue with loud music until midnight when permissions for musical instruments, loudspeakers and amplifiers were otherwise understood to extend only up to 10 pm. The court said authorities must monitor decibel levels and take action against those violating the prescribed limits.
Police Asked to Enforce Existing Rules
During the hearing, Maharashtra's Advocate General Milind Sathe told the court that Mumbai Police had already imposed restrictions between September 9 and September 26, including a ban on assemblies of more than five people without permission. He also said restrictions on firecrackers and loudspeakers were already in place.
The bench, however, questioned whether these measures were being effectively enforced, observing that violations appeared to be continuing despite the existing orders.
The court said permissions for processions should be displayed prominently at venues and along procession routes so that organisers and the public are aware of the conditions attached to them.
Security Deposits for Procession Permissions
The bench suggested that authorities consider seeking substantial security deposits from organisers seeking permission for public processions.
The court said such deposits could be forfeited if organisers violate the conditions imposed on them. It described the measure as a possible deterrent against breaches of noise and other regulations. The court also said authorities should take preventive action at the beginning of processions instead of waiting until violations have already caused harm.
Court Clarifies It Is Not Against Festivals
The High Court clarified that its directions were not intended to prevent religious festivals or processions. Instead, the bench said celebrations must be conducted while respecting the rights of other citizens. The court's proceedings came amid Ganeshotsav, when large public processions are held across Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.
The court is examining whether existing noise and environmental regulations are being properly implemented and how authorities can strengthen enforcement during public celebrations.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 22, 2026 11:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
