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The police and Revenue department squads will continue flash inspections across Kozhikode district as part of efforts to crack down on unlicensed firecracker manufacturing units and illegal sellers ahead of the Vishu celebrations. The increased vigil comes after higher authorities issued directions following the death of two people in an explosion at an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit.
Grama panchayat authorities have been directed to closely monitor the functioning of firecracker units and audit their safety measures. Officials from the District-level Disaster Management Authority are also expected to review safety protocols adopted by wholesale and retail traders in the wake of the recent explosion.
“Some local manufacturers are suspected of launching unauthorised ventures to cash in on the festival market. In the past, there have also been instances of local workers being employed to support such brisk businesses. Stringent instructions have been issued to local squads to keep a close watch on such activities,” said a Local Self-Government official from Thamarassery. He added that the formation of a district-level squad would be sought to track down such operators.
Illegal inter-State transportation and sale of firecrackers have also come under increased scrutiny by field-level squads. Storage facilities managed by wholesale traders will be subjected to frequent inspections to ensure compliance with safety norms. According to officials, road checks have been intensified to curb the seasonal trade by unlicensed operators.
“The police have already arrested a man in connection with the Kunnamangalam firecracker accident that claimed two lives on April 4. Those who allow their premises to be used for illegal firecracker manufacturing will also face legal consequences,” said a senior police officer from Kunnamangalam. He added that the cooperation of residents and voluntary organisations would be sought to identify all illegally operating units in the interest of public safety.
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