Tamil Nadu Fire Service issues NOCs for 10,244 firecracker shops
The Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services department has processed over 10,000 applications for temporary firecracker shops ahead of Deepavali.
The Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services (TNFRS) department has issued no-objection certificates (NOC) for 10,244 temporary firecracker shops across the state for Deepavali, according to The Hindu.
A senior TNFRS officer stated that 11,998 applications have been received so far. As of Monday, 914 applications remain pending and 940 were rejected.
In the northern region, which includes Chennai, 1,141 applications were received, with 849 NOCs issued and 237 applications still pending.
The department clarified that an NOC does not authorise business operations. Applicants must obtain a separate licence from the Commissioner of Police in cities or the District Revenue Officer in districts.
Safety guidelines require fireworks to be stored in sheds made of non-combustible materials, separated by at least three metres. Each shed must be at least 50 metres away from any protected structure and must not face another shed.
The NOC will be automatically cancelled and legal action will be taken if Chinese-made imported crackers are found stocked or sold at the premises.