Muzaffarpur, October 24 — The Muzaffarpur district administration has intensified inspections of firecracker shops ahead of Diwali following a deadly explosion in Siwan that claimed five lives, and on Saturday sealed five shops during a raid at the firecracker market near Garibnath Temple, IANS reported. A large quantity of firecrackers was seized for alleged violations of safety regulations.

Source: IANS via hi INDiA

The operation was led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Anand Utsav and involved officials from the Fire Department, with a large police contingent deployed at the site as the team inspected shops to assess compliance with prescribed safety standards and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The action triggered concern among firecracker traders, while a crowd gathered at the market during the inspection.

Source: Patna Press

District Fire Officer Pragya Saran said the administration had received reports of safety violations at the market and that action was being taken against traders found violating the prescribed SOPs. Officials were also informing shopkeepers about essential safety measures to minimise the risk of accidents during the festive season.

SDM Anand Utsav said the administration had received information that several shops were operating illegally and failing to comply with safety requirements, and that a special team was formed to inspect the market. He said further action would be taken in accordance with the findings of the inspection. The administration has directed traders to strictly follow all safety guidelines and warned against negligence in the storage and sale of firecrackers.