Bhubaneswar, Nov 3: Ahead of Diwali, Bhubaneswar Police have tightened restrictions on firecracker sales, designating more than 25 open grounds across the city for temporary stalls during a limited period.

Around 550 applications have been received for firecracker shop licences, but only 250 have been approved so far. Applicants must submit Form AE-5 along with identity documents and obtain necessary clearances, including an NOC from the Fire Services Department, landowner's permission, and approval from the General Administration Department or Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC). Police clearance from the local police station is also mandatory.

Despite the restrictions, unauthorised firecracker stalls have reportedly emerged in several neighbourhoods, raising concerns over enforcement. Police have warned of strict legal action against violators and stated that authorised sales will be allowed only during the two days preceding Diwali.

As per the guidelines, firecracker shops must be located at least 100 metres away from schools, markets, residential buildings and hospitals. A minimum distance of three metres must separate two shops. Stalls must be made of tin sheets and equipped with fire extinguishers, buckets and sandbags. Inflammable materials, gas lamps, candles and petroleum products are prohibited.

Online sales through platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart have also been banned.

Only PESO-approved green crackers will be permitted. High-noise firecrackers, including chocolate bombs and other prohibited varieties, are banned. Bhubaneswar DCP Shravan Vivek M warned that violations would invite penalties and legal action.