Nagpur: Even as awareness about firecracker-related pollution grows, the number of firecracker vendors in the city remains largely unchanged this festive season. According to data from the Fire Department, a total of 828 shopkeepers have been granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to sell firecrackers this year — only a marginal dip compared to 844 in 2024 and 853 in 2023.
Numbers Stable Post-Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, health concerns and restrictions had led to a steep fall in firecracker sales and licensed vendors. The number of approved shops had dropped to 582 in 2020, rising modestly to 665 in 2021 and 756 in 2022. However, since 2023, the count has consistently remained above 800, signalling a revival in the business.
Historically, the city witnessed its highest number of licensed firecracker shops in 2016 (982), followed by 951 in 2015, highlighting how the trend has fluctuated over the decade.
Shops Spread Across Key Areas
This year, firecracker outlets have mushroomed across major roads and busy commercial zones. The Gandhibagh Zone alone has over two dozen wholesale and retail shops, many operating on streetsides — a setup that fire officials warn could pose significant fire hazards if safety norms are ignored.
Strict Safety Compliance Required
A senior Fire Department official stated that NOCs are issued only after vendors pay the prescribed fees and ensure adequate fire safety arrangements, including extinguishers and safe distances from residential or commercial buildings.
“If any vendor fails to comply with the safety conditions, the department has the authority to shut down the shop immediately,” the official added.
While authorities continue to emphasize caution, the steady number of firecracker sellers suggests that traditional festive practices still hold strong — even amid growing environmental and safety concerns.
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