Amid intensifying summer heat ahead of the Agni Nakshatra period beginning May 4, the Central authorities have imposed restrictions on firecracker manufacturing activities in parts of Tamil Nadu.
The measures apply to key fireworks hubs such as Sivakasi, Sattur, and Virudhunagar, where rising temperatures have raised safety concerns.
According to the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation, factory managements have been instructed to carry out hazardous chemical mixing work only during cooler morning hours, between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. No manufacturing activities involving workers are permitted between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Officials have also directed strict adherence to safety protocols at all production units. Firecracker manufacturers have been asked to maintain records and identity details of bulk purchasers. Any violation of these guidelines could lead to cancellation of factory licences.
The advisory follows heightened concerns over safety after a recent explosion at a private firecracker unit in Kattanarpatti near Virudhunagar earlier this month, in which 25 workers lost their lives.
Authorities have urged factory owners to take all necessary precautions to prevent accidents during the peak summer period.
