Unauthorized fireworks shops raise safety concerns in Visakhapatnam

Ahead of Diwali, traders have set up fireworks shops on AU and Alvar Das grounds without police permission. They ignored safety norms that require at least ten feet between shops. Officials warn that the current three-foot spacing could allow a fire to spread rapidly in the event of an accident.

The city police commissioner has ordered inspections to be conducted before issuing permits. However, several shops have already been established. “Any shop set up without proper approvals is a safety risk. We will inspect and take action as required,” said a police official requesting anonymity.

Fireworks sales are expected to peak at AU Engineering College grounds, AS Raja College grounds in MVP Colony, and other areas, starting two days before Diwali. In previous years, YCP leaders obtained permits in the name of the ‘Fire Merchants Association’ under fraudulent identities. They set up shops and sold them to traders for profit.

This year, supporters of the Coalition Government appear to be following the same approach, submitting applications in benami names. Officials from GVMC, the Regional Fire Department, and EPDCL are tasked with verifying compliance before issuing permits.

Despite this, 126 shops were set up at AU Engineering grounds and 36 at AS Raja College grounds, each sold to traders for Rs. 1.2 lakh without approvals. In Kommadi, Zone-2 Town Planning and police officials recently removed unauthorized shops.

A senior fire department officer said, “We are monitoring the situation closely. Fire safety measures must be strictly enforced, and spacing norms followed to prevent accidents that could threaten nearby homes and buildings.”

Authorities have urged traders to obtain proper permits and follow safety regulations. They warned of strict action against anyone violating the rules.