Five Firecracker Shops Sealed in Muzaffarpur Amid Safety Drive
Five firecracker shops have been sealed in Muzaffarpur as authorities tighten oversight of the trade ahead of Diwali. The move follows a Siwan explosion that claimed five lives.
The action was taken on Saturday during a raid at the firecracker market situated near the Garibnath Temple. Officials found safety violations in the shops, sealed them, and seized a considerable stock of firecrackers.
Sub-Divisional Officer Anand Utsav led the campaign, which also involved fire department officials. Police personnel were deployed in large numbers. The inspection team examined whether the shops were complying with prescribed safety standards and standard operating procedures.
The raids created anxiety among firecracker vendors, while the inspection also drew a crowd of onlookers to the market.
District Fire Officer Pragya Saran said that complaints about safety violations in the market had prompted the administration to act. After receiving the complaints, the team visited the site and began checking the shops. According to her, traders who breach the SOPs will face action. Shopkeepers are also being informed about the safety measures needed to avoid mishaps during the festive season.
SDM Anand Utsav stated that the administration had learned several shops were operating illegally without following safety rules. A special team was formed for the inspection, resulting in the sealing of five shops and seizure of firecrackers. He said more action would be taken based on the inspection report.
Traders have been ordered to strictly observe safety guidelines, and the administration has warned that any negligence in storing or selling firecrackers will not be tolerated.
The drive comes after a deadly blast in Siwan, where a house used to store firecrackers exploded, killing five people and collapsing a two-storey concrete building. Early investigations found that large quantities of explosive powder and other materials used in making firecrackers were stored inside.
The incident has raised serious questions about the safety of firecracker production, storage, and sale before Diwali. Muzaffarpur administration has therefore launched a special inspection campaign to identify illegal shops and unsafe storage locations.
Officials said safety standards will be enforced strictly in crowded markets to prevent fires and explosions. The administration has clarified that the inspection drive will continue and that all traders must ensure compliance with safety rules.