Rajouri, Nov 05 (JKNS): The Rajouri administration has imposed restrictions on the sale, storage and display of firecrackers ahead of the upcoming Diwali festival, directing that such activities be carried out only at designated and authorised locations to prevent fire accidents and ensure public safety.
In an order issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, Additional District Magistrate Rajouri, Ravi Kumar Sihag, as per news agency JKNS, directed that within the municipal limits of Rajouri, firecrackers shall be sold only at the designated site at Old Bus Stand, subject to obtaining the requisite permission or licence from the ADC Rajouri and compliance with prescribed safety norms.
The Municipal Council Rajouri has been directed to make necessary tent arrangements at the designated location, while major shopkeepers intending to sell firecrackers have been asked to apply for permission in the office of ADC Rajouri.
For rural areas of the district, the sale of firecrackers will be permitted only after obtaining specific approval from the ADCs, ACR or concerned SDM and at locations designated by the competent authorities.
The order prohibits the sale, stocking, storage or display of firecrackers at unauthorised locations, including roads, footpaths, public places and residential areas.
The administration has also directed the Jal Shakti Department to deploy water tankers at designated sale points, while the Fire and Emergency Services Department has been asked to ensure the availability of fire tenders and firefighting personnel throughout the permitted sale period.
The Senior Superintendent of Police Rajouri, Executive Officer Municipal Council, Tehsildars, Naib Tehsildars and other concerned officers have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order.
The administration has warned that any violation of the directions shall invite penal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. (JKNS)