Mumbai restricts aerial fireworks until late November following Diwali fire surge

Mumbai's municipal administration has extended firecracker restrictions through November 25 in response to a spike in fire-related emergencies during Diwali celebrations. The ban specifically targets rockets and aerial firecrackers, which accounted for a significant portion of the 137 fires reported during the festival period.

The move reflects ongoing concerns about fire safety in India's financial capital, where densely populated residential areas and high-rise buildings face elevated risk during festival seasons. Authorities attributed many of the recent incidents to the use of banned pyrotechnic materials, despite existing regulations limiting firecracker sales and usage.

The temporary prohibition extends beyond the primary Diwali period to account for extended celebrations and straggling festivities that continue in the weeks following the main festival. The Mumbai Fire Brigade and civic officials have intensified awareness campaigns urging residents to comply with the restrictions and report any violations.

While the ban on aerial firecrackers remains in effect, ground-level firecrackers classified as safer alternatives continue to be permitted under existing guidelines. The civic body has indicated it will review the restrictions based on fire incident trends and air quality assessments in the coming weeks.