Jalandhar, ENS: Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur has issued orders under Section 163 of the Indian Citizen Security Code, 2023, restricting the sale and use of firecrackers in the Jalandhar Commissionerate area. Only licensed outlets will be permitted to sell firecrackers, and strict restrictions will apply in silence zones such as hospitals and educational institutions.
The orders also prohibit the use of firecrackers within 500 yards of Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited fuel terminals. Import of firecrackers as toys or electronic items is completely banned. Licensed sellers are allowed to procure firecrackers only from approved factories or companies and may sell only green-certified firecrackers. The manufacture, sale, and use of linked firecrackers, such as “ladi,” are entirely prohibited due to concerns over noise, air pollution, and solid waste generation. Foreign-origin firecrackers cannot be stocked, displayed, or sold.
During Diwali, firecrackers may be used only between 8 PM and 10 PM. On Christmas and New Year, usage is allowed from 11:55 PM to 12:30 AM, while on Gurpurab, timings are from 4 AM to 5 AM and again from 9 PM to 10 PM. Storing firecrackers at any location other than licensed shops within the Commissionerate jurisdiction is forbidden.
The directive will remain in force until November 7, 2025. Authorities have urged residents and shopkeepers to strictly follow these guidelines to ensure public safety and minimize environmental impact.
