Thane collector bans rockets and aerial fireworks across district till January 8, 2027

Thane District Collector Dr Shrikrishna Panchal has banned the use of rockets and similar aerial fireworks across Thane district for two months. The order cites incidents of fire and the danger to human life and property, especially in densely populated residential areas.

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

According to the District Collector's office, the decision follows incidents in which rockets and aerial firecrackers fell on the roofs, terraces and other structures of residential buildings. This created a risk of fire and caused damage to property.

The district administration said rocket-type fireworks are often fired from buildings and open spaces without adequate safety precautions. In densely populated neighbourhoods, a burning firecracker that lands on a roof or comes into contact with something inflammable could endanger the lives of residents. The administration also said falling rockets can set residential structures on fire, endangering occupants and causing loss of property.

The order specifically mentions incidents in areas such as Reti Bunder, Dadar and Lokmanya Nagar. Other densely populated parts of Thane district are also mentioned.

The decision was taken on the basis of a November 9 letter from the chief fire officer of the Thane Municipal Corporation and a preliminary report submitted by the District Disaster Management Cell on November 8.

The administration has clarified that the order applies only to rockets and similar flying fireworks. For other kinds of firecrackers, existing laws, directions of the competent authorities and applicable court orders will continue as before.

Police officers, municipal corporations, local bodies and fire brigade departments have been asked to enforce the ban strictly. The order has been communicated to the police commissioners of Thane, Navi Mumbai and Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar, the Superintendent of Police of Thane Rural, the commissioners of the municipal corporations and other officials concerned. Officials have been told to monitor compliance and take prompt action against violators.

The order has been issued under Sections 29(2), 30(b) and 34(m) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, read with Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Violators may face action under Sections 51 and 60 of the Disaster Management Act, along with other applicable legal provisions.

According to the order, the ban will remain in effect until 11.59 pm on January 8, 2027. The district administration has appealed to people to follow the rules. It said the aim of the measure is to prevent fire accidents in Thane district and protect lives and property.