People buy crackers at the Udayabhanu Kala Sangha playground at Basavanagudi ahead of Deepavali, on Tuesday.
Credit: DH PHOTO/RANJU P
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda announced on Tuesday that firecracker bursting during Deepavali will be permitted only between 8 and 10 pm, in accordance with the Supreme Court directives.
During his weekly press briefing, Dayananda said a joint task force has been set up to monitor compliance.
“A total of 315 temporary permits have been granted to applicants through a lottery system, allowing them to set up firecracker shops in 74 designated locations. These permits, aimed at maintaining transparency, come with safety requirements outlined in the licence conditions,” he said. The permits will be valid from October 29 to November 2.
The joint task force, led by Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACP) and including officials from the Fire Department, BBMP, Bescom, and the state pollution control board, will conduct inspections to ensure safety guidelines are followed.
“In case of violations, appropriate action will be taken. Officers are also prepared to handle emergencies. We’re cracking down on illegal sales, especially online, with several cases already registered,” Dayananda added.
The commissioner urged residents to take precautions while storing and setting off fireworks and to supervise children closely. “Only green crackers are permitted. Avoid bursting them in crowded places or near hospitals, fuel stations, storage facilities, and religious sites,” he said, also advising people to consider the safety of animals during the festivities.