With Diwali celebrations approaching, the Shimla district administration has instituted strict regulations overseeing the sale, storage, transport, and usage of firecrackers across the municipal limits. District Magistrate Anupam Kashyap has formally restricted all fireworks-related commercial operations strictly to 14 authorized locations. Valid from November 4 through November 9, 2026, this regulatory framework aims to keep densely populated neighborhoods safe from unexpected fire accidents during the festive rush.
Precautionary Measures to Avert Explosions and Fire Hazards
During the festive period, extensive trading and movement of flammable fireworks create major risks of blazes, blast emergencies, and property damage in crowded residential and market hubs. Explaining the rationale behind the order, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap highlighted that safeguarding human lives and public assets remains paramount. Designating open, controlled environments allows emergency teams to monitor activities closely and minimize potential dangers across the hill station.
Complete List of Authorized Trading Locations
Under the administrative order, authorized vendors are permitted to erect firecracker stalls exclusively at the following 14 demarcated venues across the Shimla Municipal Corporation area
- Ice Skating Rink, Shimla
- Old SPM Ground, Engine Ghar, Sanjauli
- Baluganj Ground opposite Gopal Mandir
- Himachal Pradesh University Ground at Summer Hill
- Khalini Bypass adjacent to Trilok Chand Shop
- Open space situated along the Chhota Shimla to Kasumpti stretch
- Open ground near GSSS Phagli
- Area near Police Headquarters in Nigam Vihar
- Panchayat Ground at Bhattakuffar
- Site near Sector-6 Kangnadhar Bus Stand in New Shimla
- Area near the Vikas Nagar Police Post
- Rani Ground in Kasumpti
- New Parking facility at Tutu
- Upper floor of the car parking complex at Sankat Mochan Temple
Deployment of Fire Safety Equipment and Vehicle Removal Mandate
The Municipal Corporation along with the Public Works Department has been directed to mark and set up designated stalls properly across all selected points. The local police force will manage security cordons, while the fire department is tasked with maintaining dedicated firefighting arrangements at each venue. Water barrels and sandbags must also be stationed on-site as an immediate contingency against unexpected sparks.
District authorities have made it compulsory to clear out all parked vehicles from the designated sale grounds to prevent obstructions in emergency lanes. Shimla's Superintendent of Police has been assigned the direct responsibility of supervising and enforcing compliance across the city throughout the operational period.
