Bathinda, Punjab, experienced a significant surge in firecracker sales during the recent Diwali festivities, with transactions reportedly reaching approximately ₹15 crore. Market estimates suggest that households in the city spent an average of ₹2,000 each on pyrotechnics, contributing to widespread celebrations that extended well into the early hours of the morning.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that approximately 75,000 households participated in the purchase of firecrackers, despite a notable increase in prices this year. The strong demand underscores the enduring tradition of fireworks during Diwali celebrations in the region.
Local vendors reported substantial sales of popular firecracker items, including an estimated 1.2 lakh units of ‘subi-wala golas’ sold at ₹15 per piece, and around 10,000 ‘anars’ purchased at ₹40 each. The city’s firecracker market is supported by two local manufacturing units and three wholesalers who supply a range of products to retailers.
The sheer volume of the trade was visually evident with the establishment of nearly 3,000 temporary stalls across Bathinda. However, only 39 of these stalls had secured official licences. A significant number of unauthorised vendors reportedly operated with little oversight from local authorities, setting up stalls indiscriminately along city streets.
Some authorised vendors expressed concern that the prevalence of unauthorised sellers impacted their ability to clear their entire stock. One licensed retailer commented, “As there was hardly any checking of unauthorised firecracker sales, vendors like us could not clear our entire stock.” Those who invested in obtaining licences reportedly incurred expenses of around ₹50,000 each for the three-day selling period, covering licence fees and other operational costs.
Residents described continued firecracker activity across neighbourhoods, with bursts of light and sound echoing through the night and into Monday morning. One local resident, Gautam Singla, shared his experience, stating, “I bought firecrackers worth ₹5,000 for myself and my sister, but the stock did not last until late at night. I had to buy more crackers worth around ₹1,500. Diwali comes once a year, and that day we should forget about expenses and pollution.” His sentiment reflects a common sentiment among celebrants who prioritise the festive spirit over financial or environmental concerns during the annual observance.
The Chenab Times News Desk
