Firecrackers flood Pindi streets despite ban

RAWALPINDI:

Despite a ban, Chinese-manufactured firecrackers have flooded the streets of Rawalpindi.

Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has imposed a ban on fireworks, firecrackers, aerial firing, wheeling, riding motorcycles without silencers, and rowdy behaviour on roads on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat. He directed all SHOs across the district to take strict action, register cases, and arrest those involved in selling or using fireworks, firecrackers, and sparklers.

Traffic police have also been instructed to issue challans to individuals involved in wheeling or riding motorcycles without silencers and to impound motorcycles where necessary.

Despite these restrictions, the sale of Chinese matchbox-style firecrackers has reached a peak. Children and youths can be seen bursting these firecrackers in streets and neighbourhoods until late at night, causing constant noise from evening till midnight.

These Chinese firecrackers, available in matchbox-sized packs for Rs100, are easily purchased by children from their pocket money. Youths often burst them from rooftops and throw them into the streets, leading to disputes when they land on neighbouring roofs.

Despite complaints, the sale, purchase, and use of these firecrackers continue unabated. Sparklers and other fireworks are also openly sold in residential areas.

The city police officer has ordered police stations across the city to register cases against those involved in aerial firing, fireworks, and firecracker use on Shab-e-Barat.