Mumbai: BMC Bans Rockets and Aerial Firecrackers Till November 25 After Spate of Fire Incidents

In a decisive move to curb fire hazards during the festive season, Mumbai's civic authorities have banned rockets and other aerial firecrackers across the city until 11:59 pm on 25 November 2026. The prohibitory order came into force on Monday, 9 November 2026, after a sharp rise in firecracker-related fires over Diwali.

Mumbai rocket ban at a glance

• What is banned: Rockets and other aerial (sky-flying) firecrackers
• Where: All areas within BMC limits, including residential buildings, terraces, rooftops, balconies and slum pockets
• When: 9 November to 11:59 pm on 25 November 2026
• Issued by: The BMC's Urban Disaster Management Authority, under the Disaster Management Act, 2005
• Not covered: Other firecrackers, which remain subject to existing laws, court orders and directions of competent authorities

Why the Ban Was Imposed

The Mumbai Fire Brigade received 142 fire calls on 8 November, Diwali night, of which 137 were linked to firecrackers, according to reports. Fires were reported in several localities, including Kalachowki, Mulund and Oshiwara, damaging homes, shops, huts and commercial structures.

The order, issued by the municipal commissioner as head of the Urban Disaster Management Authority, cites the high risk from burning remnants of rockets and aerial fireworks that land on rooftops, balconies, windows and other combustible material, especially in Mumbai's tightly packed residential and commercial areas, high-rises and slum settlements.

Scope of the Ban

The restriction applies to:

• All public and private spaces within BMC limits
• Residential buildings, terraces, rooftops, balconies and courtyards
• Parking areas, open grounds and slum settlements

It specifically targets rockets and aerial firecrackers. Violators can face action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The order is separate from the Bombay High Court's year-round ban on bursting firecrackers on public roads, streets and footpaths, and from Mumbai Police's festive-season restrictions. For the full set of rules, see our Diwali crackers guidelines for Mumbai and Maharashtra 2026.

Congress MLA Amin Patel's Reaction

Congress MLA Amin Patel welcomed the ban but raised concerns about enforcement:

"We have been saying for the past several days that the use of firecrackers should be regulated. Even as I am speaking to you, I have received a message about another fire breaking out at a location. Reports have emerged that fires broke out at 137 locations solely due to firecrackers. Although a ban has been imposed until November 25, firecrackers are still being sold openly. People are buying and bursting firecrackers, which is causing fires. The Mumbai Municipal Corporation and the police should take immediate action on this. Protecting people's lives and property is extremely important."

Reports also noted that rockets continued to light up parts of Mumbai's skyline on the night the order took effect.

Call for Strict Enforcement

The police, municipal officials and the fire brigade have been asked to enforce the order strictly. Citizens are urged to celebrate the rest of the festive season responsibly and to avoid aerial fireworks completely, and to report violations to the authorities.

The ban puts public safety first in one of India's most densely populated cities while still allowing traditional celebrations within safer limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rockets banned in Mumbai?

Yes. Rockets and other aerial firecrackers are banned within BMC limits from 9 November until 11:59 pm on 25 November 2026.

Are all firecrackers banned in Mumbai?

No. This order covers only rockets and aerial firecrackers. Other firecrackers remain governed by existing laws and court orders, including the Bombay High Court ban on bursting crackers on public roads and footpaths.

Why did the BMC ban rockets?

Because of a spike in fires over Diwali: 137 of 142 fire calls on 8 November were linked to firecrackers, according to reports.

Under which law was the ban issued?

The Disaster Management Act, 2005, by the BMC's Urban Disaster Management Authority.

Stay safe this festive season.