Thane bans rockets and similar aerial firecrackers across district until January 2027

Thane District Collector Dr Shrikrushna Panchal has prohibited the use of rockets and similar flying fireworks across Thane district for two months citing fire incidents and the risks they pose to human life and property particularly in densely populated residential areasThe order issued on November 9 will remain in force until January 8 2027 The restriction applies to both public and private spaces including buildings terraces balconies courtyards and residential premisesAccording to the District Collectors Office the decision follows reports of incidents in which rockets and aerial fireworks fell on residential rooftops terraces and other structures creating fire hazards and causing property damageFire incidents prompt districtwide restrictionsThe district administration said rockets and similar fireworks are sometimes launched from buildings and open spaces without adequate safety precautions In densely populated neighbourhoods such activities can put residents at risk when burning fireworks land on rooftops or come into contact with combustible materialsThe order specifically refers to incidents reported in areas such as Reti Bunder Dadar and Lokmanya Nagar along with other densely populated parts of Thane districtThe administration noted that falling rockets and aerial fireworks could trigger fires in residential structures endangering occupants and damaging propertyThe decision followed a communication dated November 9 from the Chief Fire Officer of the Thane Municipal Corporation and a preliminary report submitted by the District Disaster Management Cell on November 8Ban applies to public and private spacesUnder the order the use of rockets and similar flying fireworks has been prohibited throughout Thane district irrespective of whether they are used in public or private spacesThe restrictions cover residential buildings terraces balconies courtyards and other premises where aerial fireworks could create a fire hazardThe district administration has clarified that the order specifically targets rockets and similar flying fireworks Other types of firecrackers will continue to be governed by existing laws directions issued by competent authorities and applicable court ordersPolice and civic bodies directed to enforce banThe district administration has directed police officials municipal corporations local governing bodies and fire brigade departments to ensure strict implementation of the restrictionsThe police commissioners of Thane Navi Mumbai and MiraBhayandar VasaiVirar along with the Thane Rural Superintendent of Police municipal commissioners and other concerned authorities have been informed about the orderOfficials have been instructed to monitor compliance and take immediate action against those violating the restrictionsViolators may face action under Disaster Management ActThe order has been issued under Sections 292 30b and 34m of the Disaster Management Act 2005 along with Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023People found violating the restrictions may face legal action under Sections 51 and 60 of the Disaster Management Act along with other applicable legal provisionsAccording to the order the restrictions will remain in force until 1159 pm on January 8 2027The district administration has urged residents to comply with the restrictions stressing that the measure is intended to prevent fire accidents and protect lives and property across Thane district