Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order) Pankaj Sharma has issued a public advisory ahead of the upcoming Diwali festival, urging citizens to buy firecrackers only from authorized licensed vendors at officially designated locations.
He stated that the District Administration has once again observed attempts by certain individuals and shopkeepers to sell firecrackers without obtaining the mandatory license under the Explosives Act, 1884 and the Explosives Rules, 2008. Such unauthorized activities pose a serious threat to public safety and are strictly prohibited across the entire district of Shimla.
To curb illegal sales, random inspections will be conducted, and anyone found violating the rules will face strict legal consequences, including seizure of unauthorized stock, cancellation of trade licenses, and criminal proceedings as per the law.
The ADM emphasized that even licensed vendors must strictly adhere to the conditions outlined in their license. Non-compliance will attract similar punitive action. He reiterated the importance of public cooperation, stressing that people must refrain from purchasing firecrackers from unlicensed sources.
“Ensuring a safe, peaceful, and environmentally responsible Diwali is a collective responsibility,” he said, adding that the administration will take exemplary action against any defaulters. In case of any untoward incident, sole accountability will lie with those engaged in unauthorized selling or storage of firecrackers.
The District Administration urges all citizens to celebrate responsibly and help in maintaining public safety and environmental harmony during the festive season.
