Malda, Nov. 1 -- With the festive season bringing a surge in firecracker sales, the district administration has stepped up safety measures to prevent any recurrence of past tragedies. Temporary firecracker markets will be set up at nine locations across Malda district, with the main market opening at Green Park in English Bazar from Monday.
The move comes against the backdrop of the devastating fire at Netaji Municipal market in Rathbari four years ago, when a fire at a firecracker warehouse claimed the lives of two workers. Since then, restrictions on storing and selling firecrackers in regular marketplaces have been tightened.
At Green Park, on the Land department's field, 53 temporary stalls are being constructed. Both wholesale and retail sales will be allowed.
Anupam Singh, Superintendent of Police, Malda, said that temporary markets would also operate at Aihо and Bulbulchandi in Habibpur, Pakuahat in Bamongola, Gazole, Samsi, Chanchal, Harishchandrapur and Kaliachak. "Firecrackers must be sold strictly in accordance with government guidelines. We will also monitor illegal sales outside the designated markets," he added.
However, the choice of venue has triggered discontent among some residents. Anirban Das, a resident, said: "The market was initially held at Malda College ground, which was convenient for people from all parts of the town. Bringing it back to the college ground would benefit both buyers and sellers."
Uttam Basak, secretary of the Malda Merchants Chamber of Commerce, said the number of temporary markets had increased from five last year to nine this year. Traders have been cautioned against selling banned firecrackers.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.