Bengaluru police issue 19-point Deepavali safety guidelines, warn of legal action against violators

The public have been cautioned against bursting crackers in and around sensitive locations such as hospitals, petrol pumps, gas stations, religious places, old-age homes and childcare centres.

Ahead of Deepavali, the authorities have issued a 19-point advisory urging the public to celebrate the festival safely and in an eco-friendly manner, while warning of legal action against those violating the prescribed timings and safety regulations for bursting crackers.

According to the guidelines, people have been advised to purchase and use only certified green crackers and burst them strictly between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., in accordance with the directions of the Supreme Court.

The public have been cautioned against bursting crackers in and around sensitive locations such as hospitals, petrol pumps, gas stations, religious places, old-age homes and childcare centres. People have also been advised to avoid bursting crackers on main roads, in crowded areas and near parked vehicles, and instead use open grounds and less-crowded spaces.

Special care should also be taken to ensure that animals are not disturbed or harmed. After bursting crackers, people must collect the remains in a bucket and completely extinguish them using water or sand. They have also been asked to maintain cleanliness in playgrounds, roads and open spaces.

In case of an accident, people should immediately contact 112 or 108 and seek medical assistance.

The Police Department has warned that bursting crackers beyond the permitted 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. window or violating the stipulated regulations will invite legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, Explosives Act, 1884, pollution control laws and other applicable legislation.

They have also appealed to the public to inform the local police about violations and illegal bursting or sale of crackers.

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will operate 2,600 additional buses from Bengaluru to various destinations between November 6 and 8 to manage the festive rush for Deepavali and a long weekend. Return services to Bengaluru from these destinations will operate on November 10 and 11.

These special buses will connect coastal Karnataka, Malnad, North Karnataka and neighbouring States, including to Hyderabad, Tirupati, Tamil Nadu and Keralam.