Noida to crack down on illegal cracker shops

A day after a minor blast in Sector 17, which the police suspect was a firecracker going off, the city administration has decided to crack down on illegal manufacture and storage of crackers.

A day after a minor blast in Sector 17, which the police suspect was a firecracker going off, the city administration has decided to crack down on illegal manufacture and storage of crackers.

Police said during the festive season, many buy firecrackers and store them illegally for sale at higher prices later. (HT photo)

Police said during the festive season, many buy firecrackers and store them illegally for sale at higher prices later.

“We are in contact with the department that issues licence for sale of firecrackers. We will identify people who are storing firecrackers illegally,” said Anup Singh, deputy superintendent of police, Noida.

The police are focusing on industrial areas as transportation of firecrackers is easier in these places.

“Not only those who do the business illegally, but even those who have licences are under scanner. If it is found that they are not storing the firecrackers properly or are flouting safety norms, strict action will be taken against them,” he said.

Meanwhile, the fire department said it will conduct a survey to prevent mishandling of firecrackers.

“Each firecracker contains a small quantity of gunpowder. But thousands of such firecrackers can be very dangerous. All our fire tenders are ready for the festive season,” said Sushil Kumar Yadav, fire safety officer, Gautam Budh Nagar.

“Once the administration issues licences for running temporary firecracker shops, we will depute a fire tender at the location. We will also launch a drive before Diwali to make people aware of the safety measures,” Yadav said.