Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 7: Mumbai Police have prohibited the bursting of firecrackers, fireworks and rockets on public streets and roads and banned the use of laser lights and high-intensity light beams across the Brihanmumbai Police Commissionerate.
The restrictions came into effect from 12.01 am on October 6 and will remain in force until midnight on December 4, unless withdrawn earlier.
The order was issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) and Executive Magistrate, Brihanmumbai, Akbar Pathan, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, read with Section 10(2) of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.
The restrictions have been imposed ahead of the festive season, including Navratri and Diwali, when the use of fireworks and high-intensity lighting generally increases across Mumbai.
The order follows directions issued by the Bombay High Court on September 22 in suo motu PIL No. 1 of 2026. The court directed authorities to impose a total ban on bursting firecrackers on public streets and roads and take measures to curb air and noise pollution caused by fireworks.
The court also directed authorities to prohibit laser lights, high-intensity lumen lights and beams.
Accordingly, Mumbai Police have prohibited the use of firecrackers, fireworks, rockets and similar items on public streets, roads and other public areas within the jurisdiction of the Brihanmumbai Police Commissionerate.
The restrictions on laser lights and high-intensity beams are aimed at preventing hazards in public areas, particularly where powerful beams could affect motorists, pedestrians and other members of the public.
Mumbai Police warned that violations of the order could invite penal action under applicable laws, including the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Explosives Act, 1884.
The police have also directed that the order be publicised at public places, courts and government offices and announced through loudspeakers and megaphones, besides being published through available media platforms.