“The Pessimist Sees Difficulty In Every Opportunity.
The Optimist Sees Opportunity In Every Difficulty.”

The 2024 Diwali festivities in Mumbai recorded relatively fewer fire incidents than in previous years, an encouraging trend given the city’s dense population and the popularity of firecrackers during celebrations. While bursting crackers remains a cherished part of the festival, it is not without risks, with several high-profile fires in past years prompting authorities to step up safety measures.

This year, at least four fires were reported during Diwali, including an incident at a scrap shop in Andheri East and another in Kamathipura where fireworks caused extensive damage to shops. Fortunately, no deaths or severe injuries occurred, marking a notable reduction in the severity of such incidents. However, past Diwalis have seen significant numbers of fire incidents. For instance, in 2022, Mumbai recorded 85 fires from October 22 to October 24 alone, with 44% of them directly linked to firecrackers. Moreover, another 42 fires occurred in the week following Diwali, underscoring the pattern of increased fire risk associated with this festive period.

In 2021, the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) fielded 65 fire-related calls during Diwali, with many incidents stemming from improper firecracker use, traditional oil lamps, and overburdened electrical setups. The trend was alarming enough for authorities to mandate “green” crackers in 2022, which generate about 30% less pollution than conventional options. Despite this restriction, compliance has been an ongoing issue, with illegal firecracker sales persisting, often from neighbouring states where regulations are laxer.

Risk and public safety campaigns

Diwali fires tend to stem from a few common but preventable practices. For example, high-rise building residents sometimes light firecrackers from balconies or terraces, a trend that has led to accidents. During 2022’s Laxmi Puja, a rocket set off a fire in a 13th-floor balcony in Jogeshwari West, one of several such incidents each year. Compounding the risk, the MFB has reported an average of 14 fire incidents per day during the festival week, mostly tied to firecrackers, oil lamps, and overused electric circuits.

In response, the MFB has implemented extensive awareness campaigns, particularly in slums and densely packed areas where fire hazards are higher. After a spate of fires in previous years, fire officials conducted 169 educational lectures, issuing advisories on fire safety. Citizens were reminded to contact emergency services promptly and follow safety protocols. Despite these efforts, challenges in enforcement remain, particularly as some citizens continue to ignore advisories or access unauthorized firecracker supplies.

Enforcement challenges

While regulations such as mandatory use of green crackers are steps in the right direction, enforcement is a persistent issue. The problem often stems from inconsistent compliance across state borders, where less-regulated fireworks enter Maharashtra, nullifying the impact of local rules. Authorities have attempted to curb this by increasing surveillance on firecracker sales and conducting pre-festival checks, but black-market sales and non-compliance with safety guidelines continue to pose threats.

Efforts by Mumbai’s civic authorities and the fire department highlight a positive shift in the management of Diwali fire risks. However, sustaining this trend will require not only stringent enforcement but also public cooperation. By fostering a culture of safety and adhering to recommended practices, Mumbai can mitigate the annual surge in fire incidents, allowing its citizens to celebrate a safer and more eco-friendly Diwali.