Ahead of Diwali, massive rush to purchase firecrackers in Vizag

A girl selects firecrackers from a stall at the AU Engineering grounds in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.
| Photo Credit:
V. RAJU

The Andhra University Engineering College Grounds at Maddilapalem in Visakhapatnam witnessed a massive rush, as people flocked to purchase firecrackers ahead of Diwali. Families, especially children, were seen happily shopping firecrackers alongside their parents.

Most stalls reported brisk business, with customers seen actively bargaining for better deals. Traders had put up discount boards and were seen actively promoting their products to attract passers by.

Shoppers enthusiastically picked up a variety of firecrackers, including sparklers, flowerpots, ground spinners, and more, while youths were seen drawn to louder varieties such as 1000-walas and rockets. Many stalls showcased a wide selection of child-friendly firecrackers to cater to young buyers.

Ramachandra Rao, a trader, said that the prices of firecracker had slightly increased compared to last year, but huge discounts were being offered based on purchase quantity.

Another trader, Chandra Reddy, highlighted a wide variety of firecrackers available this year, especially for women and children. He attributed the rise of unique crackers, to rising public enthusiasm to burst crackers during Diwali.

A shopper, T. Viswanath, expressed concern over the high prices. He said:“I came here following a friend’s recommendation. Although the shop offered special discounts, I did not get many items within my budget of ₹4,500.”

Another shopper, Sravanthi, who visited the grounds with her children, opted to buy a few items, mostly sparklers.

Meanwhile, markets at Akkayyapalem, Poorna Market, Simhachalam and MVP Colony saw heavy crowds as people purchased decorative diyas and colourful lights for the festive season.

This year, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) fire wing has issued permissions for 536 firecracker stalls across the city. Of them, 130 were set up at the AU Engineering College Grounds alone, making it one of the largest places for Diwali shopping. Other prominent locations with stalls included Alwardas Grounds in MVP Colony, Lanka Grounds in Gajuwaka, and a few other places.

Following allegations of stalls being set up without licenses and violations of safety guidelines, police and fire department officials carried out inspections at several locations.