THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the wake of the devastating Puttingal fire disaster that claimed 110 lives, concerns have been raised about Kerala's compliance with 35 safety restrictions imposed by the central government. Over the past two decades, Kerala has witnessed 500 fatalities in 750 fireworks-related accidents, underscoring the urgent need for stricter adherence to safety protocols.

Reports indicate that the state has not implemented crucial conditions mandated by the central government, particularly the requirement to maintain a distance of 200 meters between fireworks storage and firing locations. Currently, many incidents occur due to fireworks being discharged near firework storage, with only a minimal distance of 45 meters being maintained.

In response to these safety concerns, Kerala has proposed amendments to the provisions outlined in the Ministry of Petroleum's notification, urging the implementation of safety measures based on the investigation report of the Puttingal disaster. State officials believe that adherence to central directives could significantly reduce the frequency of fireworks-related emergencies.

Central guidelines stipulate that fireworks must be set off at least 100 meters away from crowds and that firecrackers require licensing from a central agency. Additionally, mock drills must be conducted two days prior to events, and local collectors must grant permission only after ensuring safety measures are in place. Furthermore, it is prohibited to discharge fireworks within a quarter of a kilometer from hospitals and schools.

Contrastingly, Kerala's current safety regulations state that a distance of 60 meters from crowds and 15 meters from ammunition storage is acceptable and fireworks can be set off near hospitals and schools, raising concerns about public safety.

As discussions continue, the urgency for improved compliance and safety measures in the fireworks industry remains a pressing issue for the state and its citizens.

Ignored instructions

1)Risk Assessment Plan

2) Onsite emergency plan

3) Safe storage room

4) Chemical analysis of samples

5) Noise pollution test

Major fireworks disasters

-110 deaths and 750 injured in Puttingal disaster in 2016

-In 1990, 33 people died in the Duryodhana temple in Kollam.

-In 1952, 68 people died in Sabarimala.

-8 deaths during Thrissur Pooram in 1978.

-40 deaths in church and temple in Thrissur in 1984 and 1987.

-21 deaths in Palakkad, Kanchikode and Alur in 1998 and 1999.

-8 deaths during Thrissur Pooram in 2006