Pune: Diwali Firecracker Stall Permissions Under Strict Scrutiny in Pimpri Chinchwad
Pimpri, 1st November 2023: With the approaching festival of Diwali, preparations for one of the most prominent features, the sale of firecrackers, are already in motion. Traditionally, many stalls are set up without proper permission in the city. However, this year, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has taken a more stringent stance. They have issued an appeal requesting that all firecracker stalls be established only after obtaining the necessary permissions from the Municipal Corporation. As of Tuesday, 31st October, 60 individuals from various parts of the city have successfully acquired permission to set up firecracker stalls.
Following the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri, the anticipation for Diwali, the most significant festival, is palpable among the citizens. Diwali, set to commence on November 9, is accompanied by the presence of firecracker stalls in various areas of the city. Permission to operate these stalls is granted by the municipal fire department and the eight zonal offices, subject to a fee. Notably, permissions are not granted for open spaces.
To ensure safety, it is advised to keep sand readily available near the stalls to prevent potential fire incidents. Additionally, smoking, including bidis and cigarettes, should be strictly avoided within the firecracker stall areas. Inflammable items should not be stored within the stall premises, and children must be kept at a safe distance from the firecracker stalls.
The municipal fire department and all eight zonal offices are currently issuing permits for firecracker stalls. As of Tuesday’s end, 60 applicants have received the necessary approvals, following the payment of a Rs. 1,000 permission fee. The fire department emphasizes that all professionals intending to establish firecracker stalls should seek proper permissions from the municipal corporation and adhere to the prescribed rules. Anil Dhimble, Officer-in-Charge of the Fire Brigade, emphasized the importance of following these regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable Diwali celebration.
