Despite a ban, Chinese-manufactured firecrackers have flooded the streets of Rawalpindi. Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has imposed a prohibition on fireworks, firecrackers, aerial firings, motorcycle riding without silencers, and rowdy behavior during Shab-e-Barat. All SHOs in the district are directed to enforce these restrictions by registering cases and arresting those involved in selling or using prohibited items.
Traffic police have been instructed to issue challans to individuals engaging in wheeling or riding motorcycles without silencers and to impound motorcycles if necessary.
Nevertheless, sales of Chinese matchbox-style firecrackers have reached an all-time high. Children and youths can be seen exploding these firecrackers in streets and neighborhoods well into the night, creating constant noise from evening until midnight.
These small firecrackers, available for Rs100 per pack, are easily purchased by children with their pocket money. Youngsters often launch them from rooftops and throw them onto neighboring roofs, leading to disputes when they land improperly.
Despite complaints about these activities, sales, purchases, and use of the Chinese firecrackers continue without restraint. Sparklers and other fireworks are also openly sold in residential areas.
City police have ordered all police stations to register cases against those involved in aerial firings, fireworks, and firecracker use during Shab-e-Barat.