Andhra Bans Fireworks in Temples, Prior Permission for Exceptions

Executive officers of temples across the state are responsible for necessary precautionary measures immediately.

The Endowments Department of Andhra Pradesh government has ordered a complete ban on using fireworks as part of any temple festival in the state. The order comes only a few days after the Kollam tragedy where more than a 100 people lost their lives.

The government has noted that a competitive fireworks display which flouted rules and regulations has turned the temple festival in Kollam, Kerala, into a tragedy of grave proportions. It is necessary to draw lessons from this unfortunate incident so that such tragedies can be averted.

J S V Prasad, Revenue (Endowments) Principal Secretary

Executive officers of all temples across the state are now responsible to take necessary precautionary measures immediately.

The order also asked officers to ensure good quality electric wiring, to avoid short circuits and other reasons of fire.

Henceforth, no fireworks shall be used as a part of any temple festival. Even if it is contemplated as per tradition of any particular temple, prior approval of the local district administration must be taken. The government has noted that a competitive fireworks display which flouted rules and regulations has turned the temple festival in Kollam, Kerala, into a tragedy of grave proportions. It is necessary to draw lessons from this unfortunate incident so that such tragedies can be averted. Executive members of all the temples whose income is Rs 25 lakh and above, shall approach the District Fire Officer and seek their advice on preparing fool proof plans for fire safety in the temples. Executive officers shall submit a compliance report on the fire safety precautions taken in their respective temples. Special care should be taken near Potu/Pakasala where prasadams are prepared and kitchens where there is a greater risk of a fire hazard.

Order

The Executive Officer of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has also been asked to review the Venkateswara temple in Tirupati as well as other temples under his control.