The authorities are yet launch a crackdown on illegal storage and sale of firecrackers eying the Vishu market. Cashing in on the situation, many unlicensed traders have managed to get huge quantities of crackers from inter-State wholesale suppliers for quick bucks during the seasonal sale.
Although the Fire and Rescue Services department insists on a lot of mandatory safety parameters to ensure the safe and secure trade of crackers in wholesale and retails shops, many are ignoring the directives in the absence of strong enforcement measures. Traders who deal with stationery items have also ventured into the seasonal business in many village areas.
Interestingly, licensed traders have also not come up with any major opposition as there is huge demand for crackers. At the same time, they point out that no arrangements are in place at unlicensed shops to meet any emergency situation such as a fire outbreak, they point out.
In the absence of inspections by the district administration, some of such traders have even erected temporary sheds to carry out the trade. Many of such locations are now witnessing brisk sale even beyond the permitted hours. Salespersons having no proper knowledge in handling crackers are also on the field to support traders during peak hours.
Meanwhile, Station House Officers of some of the rural and city police stations say that they are keeping vigil against the illegal transportation and sale of banned category of crackers that cause huge pollution and sound beyond the permitted level. They also make it clear that surprise inspections will be carried out to check whether the manufacturers have used any banned contents in their products for high-power bursts.
