Pune: Following reports of unauthorized firecracker sales in various parts of Pune, the city’s police force has launched a crackdown to ensure public safety.

The Vimantal Police recently filed charges against four vendors operating illegally without permits, sparking further action in high-risk areas.

Under official guidelines, firecracker stalls must obtain permits from the Fire Department, Pune Municipal Corporation, and Pune Police, who conduct inspections to confirm safety standards.

Authorized stalls are only permitted in specific areas, such as Vartak Garden and Golibar Maidan, where safety measures are strictly implemented.

However, several vendors in suburban areas were found operating without any permits, posing potential fire risks in residential neighborhoods.

Among those charged are vendors near Phoenix Mall on Nagar Road, Gururaj Fireworks Mart and Mahalaxmi Fireworks Mart in Santnagar, and Ekdant Fireworks Stall in Lohegaon’s vegetable market area.

The police issued notices under Section 35(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to prevent further incidents.

Police Deputy Commissioner Himmat Jadhav urged residents to report unauthorized stalls immediately. "Illegal firecracker sales in residential areas pose serious risks. If found, residents should report such stalls immediately," Jadhav stated.

In light of potential fire hazards, the police have ordered illegal stalls to be dismantled entirely, including the removal of all firecrackers, as storing them at police stations could result in a serious accident.

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P. has also directed the encroachment department to dismantle these stalls set up on roads and footpaths and submit a report on their removal.