NEW DELHI, Oct 29— Reserving its verdict on the rules governing firecracker usage in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court declared that legal directives alone cannot curb the escalating air pollution levels during Diwali. Addressing the recurring challenge, the apex court asserted that administrative orders issued every year have faced compliance hurdles, necessitating a stronger emphasis on public awareness.
Highlighting the potential of celebrity advocacy, the court suggested enlisting influential figures like cricketer Virat Kohli to appeal directly to the public. The bench maintained that messaging from high-profile role models could motivate citizens, particularly the youth, to celebrate responsibly and minimize harmful emissions.
The apex court observed that air quality in the national capital region deteriorates significantly during the festive period, posing continuous health risks. Judicial authorities affirmed that along with monitoring enforcement, fostering a mindset shift through targeted awareness drives remains vital for achieving lasting environmental improvements.
