Aerial firing at weddings irks residents

Late-night deafening gunfire and firecrackers go unchecked

HYDERABAD:

The growing trend of aerial firing and fireworks at wedding receptions has become a huge nuisance for citizens of this second largest urban centre of Sindh.

Late-night celebrations involving deafening gunfire and firecrackers near wedding halls are instilling fear and unease among residents. This issue has been exacerbated by the apparent apathy of the district administration and police.

Besides the noise pollution, citizens are grappling with traffic chaos caused by illegal parking outside wedding halls. When baraats arrive, vehicles of guests are often parked on roads, creating gridlocks that last for hours.

Guests add to the disturbance by dancing to the beats of dhols, accompanied by aerial firing and firecrackers. Similar disruptions occur when guests depart late at night, with celebratory firing and fireworks taking place outside their homes.

Previously, public complaints forced authorities to impose bans on aerial firing and fireworks at wedding receptions under Section 144. Police and assistant commissioners were tasked with ensuring compliance. However, this enforcement has faded over the past several months, particularly in areas like Latifabad, where wedding halls often remain open late into the night.

The lack of proper parking facilities at wedding halls has led to guests parking vehicles in the middle of roads, further exacerbating traffic congestion. Despite the recurring disturbances, the district administration has failed to take meaningful action to address the issue.

Citizens have expressed frustration over the police's inaction. Even when police officials are present during incidents of aerial firing, fireworks, or roadblocks, they reportedly avoid intervening.

Allegations of bribery have further tarnished the image of police. According to complaints, police officers often accept bribes from wedding organisers, indulge in food at wedding venues, and leave without addressing the violations.

When residents lodge formal complaints, police responses are often superficial. Rather than taking punitive action against violators, officers allegedly notify the organisers about the complaints and settle the matter privately, often in exchange for bribes.

The public has repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of bans and accountability for those involved in such disruptive activities. Citizens demand immediate action from the district administration and police to curb aerial firing, fireworks, and illegal parking at weddings.

Addressing this issue is essential to restoring peace and order in the city and ensure the well-being of its residents.