Rise in illegal sale of fireworks for Diwali

Those who celebrate the age-old tradition agree that an essential element during the period is fireworks, but over the years Dubai Police have cracked down heavily on the sale of the colourful pyrotechnics in shops across the Emirate.

Divya, a resident of Dubai commented: “Diwali is incomplete if you do not let off fireworks. Some of my best memories of celebrating Diwali in my home town involve bursting fire crackers with my family.”

Despite the ban, fireworks have been selling like hot cakes down the narrow streets of Mina Bazaar in Bur Dubai, as well as in Karama.

From sparklers to spouting fountains or rockets to mini bombs, salesmen are making a quick buck from the sale of fireworks.

The process of finding these shops and their salesmen, however, can be a tricky business. As shoppers walk around the streets of Mina Bazaar, they are approached by several salesmen who hawk their wares. “Madam, do you want bags, shoes, perfumes...fireworks?”

Once your interest is gauged, you are then guided to a shady looking stairway where a sparkling display of ‘wares’ are on offer.

Whether you’re a family man looking for a few sparklers for the children or you want to delight your many guests with a colourful display of the best of the best, these salesmen can cater to your needs.

With all the fireworks imported from China prices range from a bargain Dh15 and can reach up to Dh60, depending on the quantity. And of course, like any hungry businessman, prices rise by Dh5-10 as the festive season closes in.

Shabeer (name changed at request) said that the festive sale of fireworks is not new to Dubai. “I have been doing this for several years now. People who buy from me take my contact details and call me when they need more fireworks. We build relationships with families. I have customers who have been buying fireworks from me for several years now.”

Another salesman, Taufiq, added: “Before Diwali, people buy Dh500-800 worth of fireworks and we always have plenty in stock for them.”

With the illegal selling of the products, the salesmen were asked if they ever worry about getting into trouble with the law and one commented: “It’s the festive season so authorities tend to be a little more lenient at this time of the year.”

Khaleej Times caught up with a few families who said that a Diwali without fireworks is an empty one.

Ajeeth, a resident of Sharjah said: “I buy fireworks for Diwali. I spent my childhood bursting crackers and I want my kids to experience the same.”

Another resident, Saif, added: “The sale of fireworks during the festive season is all good, but people need to be safe when letting them off. In case of injury, you will have only yourself to blame.”

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com