QUICK TAKE | Why Mumbai Banned Rockets After Diwali. Seven Things to Know

1. What exactly has Mumbai banned?

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has banned the use of rockets and similar firecrackers that fly into the air. The order took effect on November 9 and runs until 11.59 pm on November 25. Other fireworks remain subject to existing laws and court directions.

2. Why did the BMC single out rockets?

Burning debris can land on a neighbouring roof, balcony or window and start a fire some distance from where the rocket was lit. The BMC cited Mumbai’s closely packed buildings, high-rises, dense settlements and narrow roads in issuing the fire-safety order.

3. How many fires were linked to crackers?

The Mumbai Fire Brigade received 142 fire calls on November 8, of which 137, or about 96%, were attributed to firecrackers. That figure covers firecrackers of all kinds. In Dongri, a major blaze engulfed shops and huts, and firefighters took more than nine hours to bring it under control.

4. Does the ban apply on your own terrace?

Yes. It covers public and private premises within BMC limits, including terraces, balconies, courtyards and parking lots. The same restriction applies across the city and suburbs that fall under the corporation’s jurisdiction.

5. Who will enforce it?

The Urban Disaster Management Authority issued the order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The BMC directed zonal deputy police commissioners, municipal ward officials and the chief fire officer to enforce it.

6. Can breaking the ban lead to jail?

Yes. Under Section 51 of the Act, refusing to comply with an order without reasonable cause can, on conviction, carry a fine, up to six months in jail, or both. The jail term can rise to a year if the refusal results in loss of life or imminent danger of it.

7. Is the same deadline in force in Thane?

Thane district issued a separate ban on rockets and similar aerial firecrackers that runs until January 8, 2027. It covers six municipal corporations, including Thane, Navi Mumbai and Kalyan-Dombivli. Mumbai’s November 25 deadline applies within BMC limits.