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Haryana Police order crackdown on illegal firecracker trade ahead of Diwali, warn of strict action

Panchkula, Nov 3 (UNI) Haryana Police has ordered a statewide crackdown on the illegal manufacture, storage and sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali on November 8, directing district police chiefs to identify unauthorised warehouses, inspect licensed premises and prevent the sale of explosives in densely populated areas.
Director General of Police Ajay Singhal has warned that negligence in enforcing safety regulations will not be tolerated, particularly in view of past incidents of fires at firecracker warehouses, storage facilities and retail outlets.
"Negligence at any level will not be tolerated. Public safety and the maintenance of law and order during festivals remain our highest priorities," Singhal said.
The DGP has directed all police commissioners and district superintendents of police to launch special inspections covering the manufacture, transportation, storage, and sale of firecrackers. Officers have been asked to ensure that every establishment dealing in firecrackers possesses a valid licence and complies with prescribed fire safety standards.
Station House Officers (SHOs) and gazetted officers have been instructed to personally inspect firecracker warehouses and retail outlets rather than leave compliance checks entirely to subordinate staff.
The instructions place particular emphasis on densely populated residential and commercial areas, where unauthorised storage or sale of firecrackers could pose a serious threat to lives and property.
Police have been told to ensure that firecrackers are stored and sold only at designated locations with adequate open space, firefighting arrangements and emergency evacuation facilities.
Retail sales will be permitted only at approved and pre-identified sites, subject to applicable regulations.
The police will also identify vehicles and transportation routes used for moving firecrackers and keep a watch on suspicious activities involving their illegal distribution.
Joint inspections will be conducted in coordination with district administrations, the Excise and Taxation Department and other enforcement agencies. Those found manufacturing, storing or selling firecrackers without valid authorisation will face legal action.
The DGP has also ordered intensified patrolling and police checkpoints in markets and sensitive areas during the festive period.
Fire services and hospitals have been asked to remain alert and maintain emergency preparedness to respond to any fire-related incident.
Police officers have been instructed to strictly enforce applicable Supreme Court directions, other judicial orders and state government regulations governing the sale and use of firecrackers.
All significant incidents and enforcement developments must be reported immediately to police headquarters.
Singhal also appealed to residents to avoid excessive use of firecrackers and celebrate an environmentally responsible Diwali.
He urged people to buy firecrackers only from authorised sellers, follow safety precautions and immediately report suspected illegal storage or trading activities to the police.
The DGP particularly appealed to children and young people to remain conscious of the risks posed by firecracker-related accidents and air and noise pollution.
He said that a safe, pollution-free environment was a shared responsibility and urged residents to celebrate the festival with traditional earthen lamps and environmentally friendly decorations.
Police headquarters has made it clear that the festive season will not be used as an excuse to bypass licensing requirements or compromise public safety.
UNI KK RSA
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