In view of a continuous surge in fire incidents triggered by fireworks across Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has taken a major step. A complete prohibition has been imposed on burning rockets and aerial firecrackers within Mumbai until 11:59 PM on November 25, 2026. BMC Commissioner Prajakta Lavangare-Varma issued this restrictive order in her capacity as the Chairperson in Charge of the Urban Disaster Management Authority, which came into immediate effect starting November 9.
Ban Applies Across Both Private and Public Spaces
This prohibition applies strictly to both public and private areas within the administrative boundaries of the BMC. The restrictions cover residential building rooftops, apartment balconies, courtyards, parking lots, slum settlements, and all other premises. Consequently, residents will not be permitted to ignite rockets or similar soaring firecrackers even within the confines of their private residential rooftops and balconies.
Fire Brigade Received 142 Calls in a Single Day
The municipal authority reached this decision following a sudden and sharp spike in fire outbreaks linked to fireworks. On November 8 alone, the Mumbai Fire Brigade received a staggering 142 emergency calls regarding fires. Among these, 137 incidents were directly attributed to firecrackers. Major fire breakouts were reported from several localities across the city, including Dongri and Vidyavihar.
According to the administration, burning remnants of rockets and aerial firecrackers can drift and land on residential rooftops, balconies, windows, and flammable materials, creating a severe fire hazard. Given Mumbai's dense population, towering high-rises, and congested neighborhoods, this danger becomes exponentially more critical and life-threatening.
Strict Enforcement Under the Disaster Management Act
The BMC has issued this directive invoking sections 41(A), 26(2), 30, and 34(M) of the Disaster Management Act 2005. The responsibility of enforcing this ban has been delegated to the Zonal Deputy Commissioners of Police, the Divisional Assistant Commissioners of the BMC, and the Fire Brigade.
However, the administration clarified that apart from rockets and similar soaring firecrackers, this new restriction does not apply to other standard categories of fireworks. The usage of those items will continue to be governed by existing laws, orders from competent authorities, and prior judicial directives already in force.
