NT Reporter
Panaji
In a move aimed at safeguarding public safety and preventing potential disasters, North Goa Collector Ankit Yadav, has imposed a ban on the use of fireworks, sparklers, flame-thrower devices and smoke-generating equipment inside indoor and semi-enclosed public venues across the district.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, will come into force on February 8 and will remain in effect for 60 days.
The directive follows a report submitted by the Superintendent of Police, North Goa, which flagged an increasing trend of event organisers and hospitality establishments using pyrotechnic effects during indoor functions and celebrations. The report stated that such practices pose a serious and imminent threat to life, property and public order, especially in crowded and enclosed spaces.
The ban applies to a wide range of establishments, including nightclubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, resorts, banquet halls, auditoriums, beach shacks and temporary event structures. Authorities said the use of flame-based and smoke-producing devices significantly heightens the risk of fire incidents, smoke accumulation and panic among attendees, which could lead to stampede-like situations and hamper evacuation efforts.
In the order, Yadav, who is also the District Magistrate, stressed the need for preventive measures to avoid accidents, noting that indoor pyrotechnics often compromise safety norms and emergency preparedness at public gatherings.
The administration, however, has allowed for exceptions in special cases. Prior written permission may be granted by the District Magistrate or an authorised officer, subject to submission of a detailed safety and risk-mitigation plan along with all required compliance documents.
