GHMC Issues Guidelines for Firecracker Shops

Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Commissioner Ilambarthi today issued directives to shopkeepers selling firecrackers, mandating a temporary trade licence from the corporation.

Retail shops are required to pay Rs 11,000, and wholesale shops Rs 66,000.

"All those setting up firecracker shops must pay the prescribed fee and obtain prior permission from the GHMC. Applications for a temporary trade identification number can be submitted through the citizen service centre at www.ghmc.gov.in. Trade licence fees can be paid via demand draft, debit/credit cards or net banking," he added.

Shop owners must also provide copies of their Aadhaar and PAN cards as proof of identity.

The Commissioner said that firecracker shops should not be set up on footpaths or near residential areas. Instead, they should be located in open grounds or large halls, away from colonies and bastis, with adequate fire safety measures in place.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness around each stall.

Ilambarthi also advised keeping fire-fighting equipment on standby to address any potential accidents.

The Commissioner also said that firecrackers should not be burst near the shops, and insisted on the use of high-quality electrical wiring for lighting and other electrical equipment. He said that in case of any incidents, the stall-holders would be held accountable, as clearly mentioned in the temporary trade licence certificate.