Nagpur residents and pedestrians are facing a growing firecracker safety risk during Diwali as people reportedly fire rockets at passers-by and homes while recording social-media reels, according to a report by the Times of India – Nagpur.
The reported behaviour includes throwing firecrackers at unsuspecting people and directing rockets towards houses. Such acts can force pedestrians and commuters to dodge burning crackers and raise the risk of injuries and fires in densely occupied urban areas.
The report links the incidents to a pursuit of online attention, with people recording dangerous acts for likes and social-media recognition. Psychiatrist Neeraj Pande said the pursuit of online recognition was contributing to the escalation of reckless behaviour, according to the report.
The concern extends beyond individual risk. Rockets directed at homes can threaten balconies, windows and other exposed parts of buildings, while firecrackers used near people or residential structures can create hazards for occupants and passers-by. The report also warns that the circulation of such videos could encourage copycat behaviour.
The account highlights a public-safety challenge that becomes more difficult during periods when streets and residential areas are busy with pedestrians and festive activity. Unlike conventional firecracker use in designated or open spaces, directing rockets at people or buildings brings the hazard into everyday movement corridors and homes.
The supplied report does not specify the number of incidents, identify those involved, or provide details of police, fire-service or municipal action. It also does not establish whether any injuries or property damage have been recorded. Its central warning is that using firecrackers for social-media reels is turning unsafe conduct into entertainment and increasing the risk faced by citizens.
Authorities and residents will need to monitor such activity closely during the festival period, particularly around pedestrian routes and residential buildings, as the reported incidents raise questions about enforcement and public awareness alongside individual responsibility.
