Visakhapatnam Gears Up for Deepavali: 300+ Firecracker Stalls Set Up

Visakhapatnam is bustling with Deepavali preparations, featuring over 300 temporary firecracker stalls set up throughout the city. The usual location at Andhra University (AU) Engineering College Grounds is unavailable as it will host the CII Partnership Summit from November 13, 2026. The Fire Department has designated new spots within the AU campus, near the Polamamba Temple and the Football Ground, for these stalls. Additional locations include Adarsha Grounds in Gajuwaka, Pendurthi, Sujatha Nagar, Madhurawada, and Kailasagiri. Approximately 300 stalls have received permission after thorough scrutiny of applications and requirements. The two AU grounds will accommodate about 150-160 stalls, with the rest distributed citywide. Strict adherence to fire safety regulations is paramount to prevent accidents, especially after past incidents in Anakapalli district. The Superintendent of Police there has ordered extensive inspections of manufacturing units and storage facilities, warning of severe legal action for violations like unauthorized sales in residential areas. Eye-care experts also advise caution, highlighting potential injuries from firecrackers and recommending immediate professional help for any eye contact with debris. Transporting firecrackers on public vehicles is prohibited, while Railways will operate special trains to manage the Deepavali rush.