Mumbai bans rockets and aerial fireworks till November 25 after Diwali fires

Firecracker use during Diwali caused several serious fires in Mumbai, prompting the administration to take a strict decision. Rockets and similar firecrackers that fly into the sky have been completely banned within the limits of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

The ban comes into force on November 9 and will remain in effect until 23:59 on the midnight of November 25. The order has been issued for public safety, as Mumbai has a dense population and many high-rise buildings. The administration has appealed to citizens to follow the rules strictly.

In the past two to three days, firecrackers caused several fires in Mumbai city and the suburbs, especially rockets launched into the sky. Burning remnants of rockets falling on rooftops, balconies and windows of buildings, or on dry combustible material, created a serious risk of fire.

Given the density of high-rises, slums, narrow lanes and residential areas, such firecrackers posed a major risk to life and property. The strict order has therefore been issued under various sections of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to maintain public safety and prevent possible accidents.

The order was passed by Prajakta Lavangare Verma, in-charge commissioner of the municipal corporation. Its main provisions are as follows.

Ban: Rockets and all types of firecrackers that fly into the sky are completely banned within the limits of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

Where it applies: The ban will apply across Mumbai, including public and private places, residential buildings, terraces, balconies, courtyards, parking areas and slum localities.

Duration: The order will remain in force from November 9 until 23:59 on November 25.

Enforcement: The deputy commissioners of police concerned, the municipal corporation's assistant commissioners and the fire brigade have been directed to enforce the order strictly.

Other firecrackers: Ordinary firecrackers other than rockets must be used only in accordance with existing laws and court directions.