'Police Licence Till March, Fire NOC Till October': Conflicting Rules Leave Ahmedabad Firecracker Traders Confused

Ahmedabad’s firecracker traders are facing uncertainty ahead of Diwali as police licences remain valid till March, while Fire Brigade NOCs extend till October, creating a seven-month regulatory gap.

Conflicting Approval Periods

Under the existing system, police licences for firecracker sales are issued for one year, generally valid until March. The Fire Brigade, however, issues its NOC for two years, with validity extending until October.

The difference in validity periods has created confusion among traders, particularly as Diwali approaches and demand for firecrackers rises.

Traders say they face police action after March despite holding a Fire Brigade NOC that remains valid until October. They have sought greater coordination between the two departments to avoid uncertainty over whether they can legally stock and sell firecrackers.

Police Action After March

According to traders, police teams have been checking firecracker sellers after March and taking action against those operating without a valid police licence.

Traders argue that the situation becomes difficult when their Fire Brigade NOC remains valid for several more months. They say the two departments should follow a common validity period and issue clear instructions before the Diwali season begins.

Vastral Factory Explosion Brings Scrutiny

The issue has gained attention following an explosion at an illegal firecracker factory in Vastral, Ahmedabad.

After the incident, in which several people died, police and Fire Brigade teams intensified action against illegal firecracker manufacturing units and traders. Licences of several operators were also cancelled during the crackdown.

With Diwali approaching, traders say the differing rules have made it difficult to decide how much stock they can safely purchase and sell.

Traders Seek Common Deadline

Traders have alleged that the Fire Brigade has, in previous years, refused to issue NOCs at the last minute, while responsibility for the regulatory confusion is shifted between the police and fire departments.

They want both departments to jointly decide a fixed month and date for licences and NOCs before the Diwali season.

Traders say a coordinated system could reduce illegal sales while also giving legitimate businesses clarity over the period for which they can operate.

Blame Game After Fire Incidents

The lack of coordination also becomes evident when fire incidents occur at cracker storage or manufacturing premises, traders allege.

They claim that the police and Fire Brigade often point to each other's approvals when questions arise over responsibility.

With Diwali nearing, traders are now seeking clarity on whether a valid Fire Brigade NOC is sufficient after the police licence expires in March, or whether a fresh police licence is required for the remaining period.