Crowds Throng AU Grounds for Diwali Firecrackers

The Andhra University Engineering College Grounds at Maddilapalem turned into a bustling hub on Sunday, with hundreds of families thronging the venue to buy firecrackers ahead of Diwali. Children were seen excitedly picking out sparklers and flowerpots, while parents bargained for better deals at the packed stalls.

Traders reported brisk sales through the day, with many putting up discount boards and calling out to passersby to attract customers. Stalls showcased a wide variety of crackers — from sparklers, ground spinners and flowerpots to the louder 1000-walas and rockets that drew the attention of youngsters.

Ramachandra Rao, a trader, said prices had slightly increased compared to last year but added that bulk discounts were being offered. Another trader, Chandra Reddy, said this year’s range featured more products for women and children. “The enthusiasm among the public to celebrate Diwali with crackers seems to have gone up this year,” he said.

However, not all shoppers were pleased. “I came here on a friend’s recommendation, but even with discounts, my ₹4,500 budget didn’t cover everything I wanted,” said T. Viswanath, a resident. Sravanthi, another shopper, bought only a few items, mostly sparklers, for her children.

Elsewhere in the city, markets at Akkayyapalem, Poorna Market, Simhachalam, and MVP Colony were abuzz with people buying diyas and decorative lights for the festival.

According to officials, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) fire wing issued permissions for 536 firecracker stalls across the city, with 130 located at the AU Grounds alone, making it one of the largest Diwali shopping spots. Other major locations include Alwardas Grounds in MVP Colony and Lanka Grounds in Gajuwaka.

Following reports of unlicensed stalls and safety lapses, police and fire department teams conducted inspections across several areas to ensure compliance with safety norms.