Mohali Residents Defy Diwali Cracker Ban, Explosions Heard Past Midnight

On October 19, 2025, the Mohali administration had issued orders allowing residents to burst only green crackers that do not contain harmful chemicals for a 2-hour window on Diwali night, from 8 pm to 10 pm. However, as the clock struck midnight on October 20, 2025, loud explosions were heard across the district, including in the Industrial Area Phase 8, indicating that the restrictions were widely ignored.

Residents working night shifts in the industrial area reported hearing the sound of crackers being burst as early as 11:30 pm on October 19, 2025, a day before Diwali. "Crackers were being burst around 11.30 pm near Phase 8 on Thursday. It wasn't even Diwali yet," said Sandeep Kumar, an IT professional. Factory workers and security guards also expressed concerns about the noise disrupting their work.

While the district magistrate's orders prohibited the manufacture, stocking, and sale of chain fireworks (laris) across the state, it seems the regulations failed to translate into compliance on the ground. The SDM of Mohali stated that police officials have been directed to take action in case of any violations, but the officer in charge of the Industrial Area police post claimed they had not received any complaints so far.

This incident highlights the persistent challenge of enforcing cracker restrictions during the Diwali season, with early and prolonged use of firecrackers despite official orders.