Mumbai has banned rockets and other aerial firecrackers across all areas under Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation jurisdiction until 11.59 pm on November 25, 2026, after at least three major fires were reported across the city and its suburbs during Diwali celebrations.
The restriction came into immediate effect on November 9 through an order issued by Mumbai’s Disaster Management Authority. It prohibits the use of rockets and similar fireworks that soar into the sky in both public and private spaces within BMC limits.
The order has been issued under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, by Prajakta Lavangare-Varma, Chairperson (Acting) of the Urban Disaster Management Authority and Municipal Commissioner. It cites the risk that burning debris from aerial fireworks could land on rooftops, balconies, windows and other locations containing flammable material.
The ban covers building terraces, rooftops, balconies, courtyards, parking areas and slum clusters, in addition to other residential and public spaces. Authorities said the risk is particularly serious in Mumbai because of its dense neighbourhoods, high-rise buildings, congested chawls and narrow lanes, where a fire can spread quickly and emergency access may be difficult.
The decision follows several fire incidents reported over the past two days. At least three major fires broke out at separate locations on Diwali night, damaging huts, shops, a garage and parts of a commercial building, officials said. The available report did not specify the individual causes of each fire.
The restriction applies specifically to rockets and other aerial firecrackers. Conventional firecrackers that do not fall within the ban remain permitted, but their use must comply with existing laws, judicial guidelines and directions issued by the relevant statutory authorities.
The BMC, Mumbai Police and Mumbai Fire Brigade have been directed to enforce the order. Zonal Deputy Commissioners of Police and BMC Assistant Commissioners have also been tasked with ensuring implementation across the city’s administrative wards and preventing further fire-related risks during the restriction period.
A similar order has been issued in neighbouring Thane district. District Collector Dr Shrikrushna Panchal prohibited rockets and other flying fireworks across Thane for two months from November 9, with the order remaining in force until January 8, 2027. That restriction also covers public and private spaces, including buildings, terraces, balconies, courtyards and residential premises.
