Guwahati: Assam reported 112 fire incidents, including 22 in Kamrup (Metro), on Diwali as celebrations continued across the state.Fire and Emergency Services officials are investigating the incidents. After several shops were gutted in Pathsala, the Bajali district administration cancelled, with immediate effect, all permissions for the temporary sale of firecrackers in the district.An order issued by the office of the district magistrate, Bajali, on Monday cited concerns over public safety and the risk of further damage to life and property.“Considering the potential threat to public safety, risk of fire hazards and possibility of loss of lives and property, it has become imperative to take immediate precautionary measures to prevent any further untoward incidents in the district,” the order stated.The administration cancelled permissions granted under four orders issued on Friday and Saturday for the temporary sale of firecrackers at designated locations.It directed vendors to immediately stop the sale, display and distribution of firecrackers, and to safely store any remaining stock in accordance with directions from the competent licensing authority.Vendors were also asked to cooperate with the police, magistrates and Fire and Emergency Services during inspections and enforcement.The Bajali senior superintendent of police, circle officers and the Pathsala Fire and Emergency Services were tasked with enforcing the order and preventing unauthorised sale or storage of firecrackers at the affected locations.The order, signed by the Bajali district development commissioner, warned that violations would invite legal action under relevant laws.
