This year, as Diwali approaches, the Mumbai Police have announced strict measures during the Diwali festival as a precautionary safety measure. Mumbai Police have implemented a ban on the use, sale, and flying of sky lanterns during the one month period. The ban will be in effect from November 4th to December 3rd. As per a TOI report, authorities have expressed concerns that sky lanterns could potentially endanger lives and cause damage to public property. Violators of the ban will face legal consequences under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, which includes imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both.
In addition to the sky lantern ban, the sale, possession, and display of firecrackers without the appropriate license have also been prohibited during this period. The Mumbai Police Commissioner or any designated police officer must grant licenses for the sale of firecrackers. This measure aims to prevent any unauthorized use or distribution of firecrackers, ensuring public safety during the festivities.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Vishal Thakur, emphasized the necessity of implementing restrictions on sky lanterns to prevent any anti-social activities during the festival. Last year, a fire allegedly caused by a flying sky lantern in a 36-storey building under construction in Malad East prompted the former Mumbai fire chief, P Rahangdale, to request a ban on such lanterns.
It is important to note that similar restrictions were enforced during the same period last year, demonstrating the authorities’ commitment to ensuring public safety during Diwali.
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