BMC bans rockets and aerial firecrackers in Mumbai till November 25 after Diwali fires

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has banned rockets and other firecrackers that fly into the air across the city till November 25, after several fires in Mumbai and its suburbs over the past two days. The BMC cited risk to public safety and property.

According to officials, at least three major fires broke out at different places in Mumbai on Diwali night. Several huts, shops and a garage were gutted, and part of a commercial building was destroyed.

The order was issued by Mumbai's disaster management authority. It prohibits rockets and aerial fireworks in all areas under the BMC's jurisdiction. The ban came into force immediately on November 9 and will remain in effect until 11.59 pm on November 25, 2026.

The order was issued under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It is signed by Prajakta Lavangare-Verma, the municipal commissioner and acting chairperson of the Urban Disaster Management Authority.

Officials said burning debris from firecrackers fired into the air can fall on rooftops, balconies and windows, and in places where easily flammable material is stored. This can start fires.

The risk is particularly high in Mumbai because of its densely populated areas, high-rise residential buildings, crowded chawls and narrow lanes. The administration has warned that burning particles from rockets can endanger both lives and property.

The order imposes a complete ban on rockets and all firecrackers that go up into the sky. The ban applies in both public and private places, including the terraces, balconies, courtyards and parking areas of residential buildings, and slum settlements.

Ordinary firecrackers that do not fall under the ban may be used, but only in compliance with existing laws, court guidelines and directions of the statutory authorities concerned.

Zonal deputy commissioners of police, the BMC's assistant commissioners and the Mumbai Fire Brigade have been made responsible for strict enforcement. Their job will be to stop violators and reduce the fire risk in all administrative wards.

Separately, Thane District Collector Dr Shrikrishna Panchal issued an order on Monday banning rockets and similar flying firecrackers across Thane district for two months. The order cites fire incidents and the threat to life and property in densely populated residential areas.

The Thane order was issued on November 9 and will remain in force till January 8, 2027. The ban applies in public and private places, including buildings, terraces, balconies, courtyards and residential premises.