Karnataka Government Considers Ban On Diwali Firecrackers In Bengaluru: Minister

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday said the government is mulling to impose a ban on the bursting of crackers in Bengaluru city during Deepavali.

His comments come in the wake of the Attibele fire mishap near here earlier this month, which claimed 16 lives.

Speaking to reporters here, he said, "Every year during Deepavali such fire incidents happen. Yesterday too, in Tamil Nadu, about 12 people died. We will be bringing new laws in the days to ensure that such incidents don't occur and to regulate things. Discussions are on in this regard. This incident has taught us a lesson...we will also bring in amendments to existing laws, if necessary," he said.

Parameshwara expressed the need for the government to deliberate on permitting or restricting the use of firecrackers in Bengaluru during the upcoming festival. He highlighted the casualties and injuries that occur due to firecracker-related incidents, mentioning the ban on cracker bursting during Deepavali in Delhi.

The Home Minister stated the intention to explore the possibility of a ban in Bengaluru, considering legal and logistical aspects, and will engage in discussions with the chief minister to formulate a decision.

He also referenced the tragic fire incident at a private traders' facility where firecrackers were stored on October 7, resulting in 14 immediate casualties and two subsequent deaths. The Karnataka government initiated a magisterial inquiry into the event on Tuesday.