In the underground subway near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), hawkers were observed selling firecracker weapons in spite of orders from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to keep an eye on firecracker booths throughout the city.
The air in the already stifling subway has been contaminated by the smoke from these firecrackers, making it difficult for people to breathe and increasing concerns about a possible disaster. Many commuters referred to the smoke-filled hallway as a “disaster waiting to happen”, and their worries were heightened by the strong, poisonous odour.
In context of a recent fire in Hyderabad, advocate Gauratna Kale voiced her displeasure at the uncontrolled sale of hazardous goods in such a busy place. She said that seeing hawkers selling dangerous goods in such a crowded area is shocking. A single spark might transform the entire area into a charcoal pit because firecrackers are sold next to clothing at the kiosks. How is it possible for the BMC to ignore such a risky and unlawful conduct occurring directly in front of them?
In response to this, surveys are being carried out by BMC's encroachment and licence departments to find and eliminate unlicensed dealers. Anyone found selling firecrackers illegally during festivals like Dussehra or Diwali must face immediate and severe action under Section 314(k) of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act, the licence department said in a recent circular.
On the illegal firecracker sale Jaydeep More, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of Ward A said that he will direct the market department to take the appropriate action against any stall owners who are engaging in such activities in the CSMT subway.
A senior civic official said that any firecrackers that are sold or kept unlawfully are actively seized by the enforcement team. After being seized, the items are taken to the Mankhurd godown to be properly destroyed. A daily report of ward-wise action will be prepared and sent to the higher authorities.
In an effort to stop illegal firework sales, the BMC and the Mumbai Police carried out coordinated operations last week. The Mumbai Police also prohibited the sale and storage of flying or wishing lanterns, and the civic organisation issued a warning to merchants that they would face legal repercussions if they sold more than they were permitted to or did not have a licence to sell firecrackers.
Firecracker sales enhance the risk of fires and present health and environmental hazards due to noise and air pollution. In Mumbai, however, illicit firecracker vendors have been spotted on a number of streets and sidewalks.
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