Kolkata Cracks Down on Illegal Fireworks Ahead of Diwali

As Kolkata prepares to celebrate Diwali, the city has seen a concerning rise in illegal firecracker violations in the past few days. In the 48 hours leading up to October 19, 2025, police have reported cracker-related violations from several neighborhoods, including Kasba, Dhakuria, Baguiati, New Town, Salt Lake, Phoolbagan, and New Alipore.

The seizures of banned firecrackers have more than doubled during this period, with the total amount reaching 4,600 kg as of October 19. The number of FIRs lodged has also increased from 27 on October 17 to 43 on October 19, and over 15 arrests have been made for cracker-related violations since Thursday.

To address this issue, the Kolkata Police have decided to form special teams to conduct raids across the city on Diwali day, October 21. They have warned that violators may not be granted bail from police stations and will instead be produced in court. The authorities have also resorted to miking and repeated visits to high-rise buildings to create awareness and curb noise pollution.

Despite these efforts, the police have continued to find shops selling banned crackers in various parts of the city, including Tollygunge, Behala, Janbazar, Park Circus, Keshtopur, and New Alipore. The recovery of 600 kg of illegal firecrackers from the Esplanade Bus Stand has been one of the biggest seizures in the past 72 hours.

The Kolkata Police are determined to take strict action against Diwali cracker violators, invoking both the Indian Explosives Act and additional sections under the Kolkata Police Act. Their goal is to ensure a safe and environmentally-conscious celebration of the festival of lights in the city.