BMC orders action against unlicensed firecracker sellers on Mumbai roads and footpaths ahead of Diwali

Those selling firecrackers without a licence on Mumbai's roads and footpaths ahead of Diwali face strict action. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued an order for stringent action against such sellers.

Under the order, senior inspectors have been directed to act under Section 314 (c) of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act against those illegally selling firecrackers in public places during festivals such as Diwali, and to have encroachments removed.

Senior inspectors of the encroachment and licensing department have been specifically told that if shops or stalls are illegally set up on BMC roads and footpaths to sell firecrackers, immediate and strict action must be taken against the vendors concerned.

The action is also seen as important because it will clear encroachments from public roads and footpaths and give pedestrians unobstructed passage.

The special operation will run from October 26 to November 11, 2026. Reports on all action taken against those selling firecrackers without permission, and against licence holders keeping illegal stock, must be submitted daily to the respective offices. On the basis of these reports, daily information will be given to the Deputy Commissioner (Special) and the Additional Commissioner (Western Suburbs).

The campaign is not limited to unlicensed sellers. The stocks of firecracker sellers who hold an official licence will also be inspected. If a licence holder is found with a stock of firecrackers exceeding the permitted quantity, the order directs appropriate action under Section 394 of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act.

Having a licence is therefore not enough. Licensed sellers too must follow the rules or face action. Overall, the BMC has stressed keeping roads and footpaths clear during the festival days and not allowing firecrackers to be stockpiled beyond the permitted limit.