Selling or using smuggled Chinese firecrackers will result in hefty fines. Sellers can be penalized under the Customs Act, 1962d, according to a notification from the customs department.
The import of firecrackers is “restricted” and as such any person who possesses or is in anyway concerned with carrying, depositing, harbouring, keeping, concealing, selling or purchasing or in any other manner dealing with Chinese firecrackers will be punished, the notification warned.
The use of Chinese crackers are against Explosive Rules, 2008 and is harmful as they contain banned chemicals like red lead, copper oxide, lithium, etc. “These chemicals are highly dangerous and inimical to the environment. Moreover, buying Chinese crackers also affect our economy and pose a threat to the domestic industry,” it added.
Customs officials have asked the public to inform their control room on 044—25246800 if they find anyone selling Chinese firecrackers.
The government has promised to introduce eco-friendly crackers that would produce lower emissions. Domestic cracker manufacturers had voiced their concern about Chinese imports stating that these green crackers would work only if Chinese imports are curbed.
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