Makeshift cracker shops flout safety norms

According to the Fire Services guidelines, firecrackers cannot be sold in makeshift shops. They must be sold from brick and mortar premises with a proper entrance and fire exit. In addition, fireworks shops should be located at a safe distance from congested areas. They should adopt fire safety measures like having a fire extinguisher on the premises. Based on the Madras High Court’s 2009 directive, traders from Parry’s Corner have to open shop only in Island Grounds. However, temporary stalls, violating these codes, are sprouting up everywhere. 

At a bustling market area in Purasawalkam, a makeshift stall stocking up on a wide range of fireworks could be seen. Outside the makeshift outlet, there were no fire extinguishers or safety mechanisms – merely a ‘No Smoking’ sign can be seen. The stall, manned by Shankar, witnesses a steady trickle of customers. “We have just started a day ago, and business has been pretty good. The sales usually pick up a day or two before Deepavali,” he said. When asked about the restrictions set down by the department, he said, “Most people don’t know about it and so far nobody has asked us to close shop.” Another cracker seller in Perambur said, “My shop is far away from the others. So I don’t think it is much of a problem.” 

These are not isolated incidents. In almost every market, makeshift stalls, some dangerously close to other shops, are sprouting. Boxes of sparklers and ‘atom bombs’ are being sold on push carts, creating a fire hazard. In Velachery Main Road, there are three cracker stores, said Sunil Saini, a resident. “These temporary shops are within a short stretch of one kilometer. They are located in a busy market area, which is very unsafe. Moreover, there are no fire extinguishers or even sand, as a precaution in case of a fire. I get worried thinking how a small mishap c can cause a massive destruction of life and property,” said the data scientist. 

When contacted, Shahul Hameed, Joint Director, Fire Services said, “Temporary shops should get a licence before sales, but they should have a roof. Makeshift shops are not allowed. I have seen pavement dwellers selling crackers on the road and the Police evacuated them. Despite the existence of the rules, this problem is widespread. The enforcement authority is the police, who are authorised to take action against the offenders.”