PMC may follow Mumbai in curbing aerial fireworks

A tragic fire broke out last week in a residential area of a town in Madhya Pradesh, killing several people and injuring dozens, with investigators linking the blaze to the use of aerial fireworks during a local celebration. The incident has revived memories of similar disasters in other Indian cities, notably the 2018 fire in Mumbai that prompted the municipal corporation there to impose a ban on aerial fireworks in densely populated neighborhoods. Local authorities have confirmed that the fireworks ignited flammable material in a makeshift kitchen, causing the fire to spread rapidly through adjoining homes.

In response, the municipal corporation (PMC) of the affected area announced that it is considering a regulatory framework similar to Mumbai’s, which restricts the sale and use of aerial fireworks within a 500‑meter radius of schools, hospitals and densely packed housing. The proposal, presented at a recent council meeting, cites public‑safety data showing a spike in fire‑related injuries during festival periods when fireworks are widely used. Officials emphasized that the measure would be limited to high‑risk zones and would allow ground‑based fireworks that pose a lower fire hazard, aiming to balance cultural traditions with safety concerns.

If adopted, the curbs could affect vendors who sell aerial fireworks and residents who traditionally light them during Diwali and other festivals, prompting a shift toward safer alternatives such as sparklers and ground‑based displays. Enforcement would likely involve routine inspections by municipal officers and penalties for violations, mirroring the system Mumbai put in place after its own tragic incident. Community leaders have urged the council to conduct awareness campaigns so that citizens understand the reasons behind the restrictions and can celebrate responsibly.