Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, October 18: As Diwali approaches, District Superintendent of Police, Sri K.V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS, has issued an important appeal to the people of Srikakulam district to celebrate the festival of lights with safety, responsibility, and environmental awareness. Emphasizing the importance of preventing accidents and pollution, the SP cautioned that strict legal action will be taken against those involved in the illegal manufacture, storage, sale, or transport of fireworks.
He reminded that fireworks should be sold only with proper permission from the Police Department and relevant authorities, and shops must be located in open spaces away from residential areas, maintaining a distance of at least three to five meters between outlets. Each licensed shop must also keep sufficient sand, water drums, and fire extinguishers readily available as precautionary measures.
SP Maheshwara Reddy urged citizens to avoid buying fireworks from unlicensed vendors or roadside sellers and to report any such illegal activities to the nearest police station. He warned that cases would be registered against offenders under relevant legal provisions.
In his message, the SP stressed the need to celebrate an environmentally friendly Diwali by using only “green crackers” that cause less pollution. He added that fireworks should not be lit after 10 p.m. to prevent noise pollution and public disturbance. Crackers that emit loud noises or cause inconvenience will invite legal consequences. Instead, the public is encouraged to use low-noise, light-based crackers such as pencils, bhuchakras, chichubuddhus, and kakarapuvattus.
To ensure the safety of children and families, the SP also shared detailed safety guidelines:
* Fireworks should be lit only outdoors and away from kitchens, gas cylinders, and flammable materials.
* People should wear fitting clothes while bursting crackers and maintain a safe distance after lighting them.
* Crackers should never be placed in cans, bottles, or boxes to enhance sound.
* Children must always be supervised by adults and should light only one cracker at a time.
* Buckets of water and sand should be kept nearby for emergencies.
* In case of burns, wash the area immediately with clean water and seek medical help without delay. For eye injuries, consult an eye specialist immediately.
SP Maheshwara Reddy also highlighted that Diwali is a festival of light and joy, and any negligence or carelessness can turn it into an occasion of sorrow. He urged everyone to ensure that safety and happiness go hand in hand during the celebrations.
In conclusion, the SP extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to all citizens of Srikakulam district and appealed to them to celebrate responsibly, follow safety norms, and contribute to a cleaner and greener Diwali.
“Celebrate the festival of Diwali happily and carefully — it is our responsibility to protect your safety and the safety of others,” said District SP Sri K.V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS.
