Ban on fireworks at weddings in Hyd goes up in smoke

The growing trend of bursting fireworks and loud crackers during marriage ceremonies, especially late-night deafening explosions, has become a serious concern for people in the second biggest urban centre of Sindh. To add fuel to the fire, the district administration and police are reluctant to take any action, much to the chagrin of local residents.

Fireworks have become an almost mandatory feature of wedding celebrations in many neighbourhoods, including Hyderabad and Latifabad. The thunderous sound of these crackers is particularly disturbing during the quiet, cold nights. The eerie stillness of the city amplifies the impact, making the blasts even more jarring.

The district administration has imposed a ban on fireworks, crackers, and loud music, but apparently enforcement has faded over time. Despite several complaints from residents, police appear reluctant to take decisive action.

Earlier, wedding halls and banquet venues strictly followed fixed business hours, ensuring that celebrations concluded by midnight. Now, wedding processions, or barats, often continue until 4am in the morning. After the departure of the bride, the night erupts into a frenzy of fireworks.

Citizens argue that this is no longer just a nuisance but a serious public issue. Despite its impact, neither political nor religious organisations seem willing to address the matter. Public representatives, too, remain indifferent, leaving residents to cope with the nightly disturbances on their own.

The people of Hyderabad are now demanding action. They call for the strict enforcement of the existing ban on fireworks and a crackdown on those responsible for flouting the rules.