Restrictions on use of fireworks remain

The restrictions on the use of fireworks will remain in place and anyone found using fireworks outside the stipulated hours will be taken to task.

As we approach Diwali, the Mineral Resources Department stressed that the use of fireworks will be restricted to the hours from 5pm until midnight on Diwali night.

The department has also confirmed that the using of fireworks at any other time prior to Diwali is to be restricted to between the hours of 5pm and 10pm.

Senior officer at the department Venasio Nasara added only those fireworks that have been checked and approved by them will be allowed to be sold by those shops that have been licensed to retail firecrackers.

According to Nasara, they have the listing of the types of fireworks that are permitted as well as those that are not permitted.

Nasara also confirmed those shops and outlets selling non-permitted or banned fireworks will be liable to pay a fine of $800.

As for members of the public caught using fireworks outside of the permitted hours, they will be liable to pay a fine of $400.

Diwali will be celebrated on the 17th of next month.