VMC tightens safety protocol for firecracker vendors to ensure safety

Vijayawada: With Diwali fast approaching, the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) and the fire department have tightened safety protocol for firecracker vendors to prevent any untoward incident. It may be noted that a major fire broke out at firecracker stalls in Gymkhana Grounds two years ago.In a large-scale campaign titled "safe and happy Diwali," the VMC has laid an emphasis on safety. Firecracker stalls will be permitted only in specific locations, including Gantasala Venkateswara Rao Music College, Makineni Basava Punnaiah Stadium, and Mini Stadium in Vidyadharapuram. Temporary fire permits have been strictly restricted to these areas, ensuring that no stalls are set up near residential zones or petrol stations. Fire and disaster management officials are rigorously inspecting all licensed stalls, providing each location with water drums, sand buckets, and fire extinguishers. VMC has also stationed fire engines at approved firecracker complexes as a precaution.In addition to VMC's safety efforts, the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board is conducting inspections to ensure only green crackers are sold