Pune police ban string crackers and noisy fireworks after 10 pm for Diwali

Residents of Pune will have to follow strict rules on firecrackers this Diwali. The city police have banned crackers joined in strings and thread-wrapped crackers sold as "atom bombs". Bursting noisy crackers at night and setting off crackers on public roads have also been prohibited.

The order was issued on Friday by Additional Commissioner of Police (Administration) Sanjay Patil. The directions are meant to keep the sale and use of crackers in check during the festival.

According to the order, crackers that are joined in a long string and designed to go off one after another cannot be sold, stored or burst. The same ban applies to thread-wrapped crackers sold as atom bombs.

The rule on night-time crackers is also clear. Police have barred the bursting of noisy crackers between 10 pm and 6 am. During this period people may use only crackers that give off light and do not make a loud noise. Bursting crackers on public roads is also not allowed.

The aim of the rules is to keep noise in check during Diwali celebrations and to determine where fireworks can be set off.

The police order also sets a fixed period for traders selling crackers on temporary licences. Such sellers can do business from November 6 to December 5, 2026.

After this period ends, any stock they have left must be returned to traders who hold permanent licences and are permitted to store and sell crackers.

The restrictions apply both to the use of certain kinds of crackers and to the conditions under which crackers can be sold. During the festive season, both the public and traders must follow the prescribed rules.