NEW DELHI, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in India's financial capital, Mumbai, on Monday banned the bursting of rockets and aerial firecrackers in both public and private spaces until Nov. 25 following a surge in fire incidents during Diwali celebrations.
The Mumbai Disaster Management Authority said densely populated localities, high-rise buildings, slum areas, narrow roads and closely packed residential and commercial structures increase the risk of fire accidents caused by such firecrackers, thus posing a serious threat to life and property.
The restriction came after Mumbai recorded 142 fire incidents on Sunday, of which 137 were attributed to firecrackers. Two women were injured in these incidents.
Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, was celebrated across India with religious fervour and gaiety on Sunday, with people bursting firecrackers to mark the festival. ■