The Delhi police seize 1700 kg of banned firecrackers ahead of Diwali, taking strong action to protect public safety and reduce pollution. Officers from the Crime Branch conducted several raids across the capital and arrested seven people linked to the illegal sale and storage of firecrackers. Deputy Commissioner of Police Pankaj Kumar confirmed the operation and praised the coordinated effort.
Police teams raided multiple key locations, including Dwarka, Rohini, Uttam Nagar, Shastri Nagar, Mukundpur, Mandoli, and Shahdara. These actions followed recent Supreme Court directives that aim to curb air pollution by limiting the sale and use of firecrackers. Officials explained that the campaign’s main goal is to help Delhi residents celebrate Diwali safely and responsibly.
Air quality in Delhi usually declines from October through winter. Pollution from stubble burning in Punjab, Mohali, and surrounding states adds to the crisis. Last year, Delhi topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities. This year, authorities hope stricter enforcement will prevent a repeat of such alarming levels.
During the crackdown, police collected a total of 1,645 kg of banned firecrackers from different areas, including one pickup truck. They also recovered 106 kg from a grocery store in Mandoli, 916 kg during searches in Dwarka, Rohini, and Uttam Nagar, 412 kg from a Shastri Nagar home, and 311 kg from a Mukundpur building disguised as an LED bulb factory.
The first major breakthrough came when officers arrested Akash Gupta, a 24-year-old grocery store owner. Police discovered 13 cartons and a sack full of banned firecrackers in his house. Gupta revealed that Chander Kant, a 36-year-old driver, supplied him with the stock. Soon after, officers caught Chander in Rohini with 400 kg of additional firecrackers inside his vehicle.
The investigation expanded quickly. Officers arrested Rishi Raj from Uttam Nagar with 182 kg, Rahul Sagar from Shastri Nagar with 412 kg, and Sonu from Mukundpur with 311 kg. In Shahdara’s Ashok Nagar Market, police caught Vishal Sharma, 34, selling 106 kg of banned firecrackers. Another suspect from Mandoli was detained with a similar quantity.
DCP Pankaj Kumar said all suspects admitted their roles during interrogation. Investigators are now tracking the suppliers behind this illegal distribution network. They are also studying how such large quantities reached residential areas despite strict restrictions.
Experts point out that these actions are not only about enforcing laws but also about saving lives. Firecrackers emit toxic gases and fine particles that worsen air quality and cause breathing problems. Children, the elderly, and people with respiratory diseases are most vulnerable during this season.
To fight pollution, the Delhi government has launched awareness drives encouraging people to celebrate with eco-friendly Diwali alternatives. Citizens are urged to use diyas, LED lights, and participate in community events instead of burning crackers. Environmentalists have welcomed the police’s efforts, saying such enforcement can significantly reduce pollution.
Authorities have also asked residents to report any illegal sale or storage of firecrackers. People can contact local police helplines or use the Green Delhi App to share information. Greater community participation, they said, can make a real difference in keeping Delhi’s air clean.
As the festival approaches, officials continue to stress the importance of safety and responsibility. The Delhi police seize 1700 kg of banned firecrackers operation shows how effective teamwork between citizens and law enforcement can help protect both public health and the environment during India’s most celebrated festival.
