Despite a ban on Chinese firecrackers sale they are openly available in the crowded markets of Nagpur, posing significant safety hazards. Their high potassium perchlorate content increases the risk of unexpected explosions, making storage especially dangerous. Wholesale traders are supplying these hazardous firecrackers to retailers, who then pass them on to smaller shopkeepers.
In areas like Gandhi-bagh, Jaripatka, and Lalimli in Itwari, numerous vendors are selling firecracker guns filled with Chinese crackers, heightening the risk of accidents.
Reports suggest that some shopkeepers are storing their Chinese firecracker stock in homes or rented rooms to avoid detection during potential law enforcement raids.
This year, Chinese firecrackers have taken on even more perilous forms. Previously, items like ‘Poppop’ were small and relatively harmless, but now they have increased in size and danger.
These firecrackers detonate upon impact with a surface, while others, labeled as ‘missiles,’ can be fired like bullets from toy guns. Among the most concerning is the ‘hand grenade’ firecracker, designed to resemble a real grenade. It features a hook attached to a rope that, when pulled, releases smoke before exploding within seconds.
Banned Ingredients: Chinese firecrackers contain a mild potassium chlorate powder priced at around ₹50 per kg, compared to ₹300 per kg for the safer powders used in Indian crackers.
This difference highlights the dangers of Chinese firecrackers, especially since potassium perchlorate is banned in India.
Health Risks: Besides being explosive, Chinese firecrackers can harm health. Their raw materials are dangerous, and the smoke they produce can cause health problems.