the sale, purchase and use continue unabated; Sparklers and other fireworks are also sold openly
RAWALPINDI:
Despite the ban, Chinese-made firecrackers have flooded the streets of Rawalpindi.
Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema imposed a ban on using fireworks, firecrackers, aerial firing, cycling, riding motorcycles without muffler and rowdy behavior on roads on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat. He directed all SHOs in the district to take strict action, register cases and arrest those involved in sale or use of fireworks, firecrackers and flares.
The traffic police have also been directed to issue challans to persons involved in driving or riding motorcycles without mufflers and to confiscate motorcycles wherever necessary.
Despite these restrictions, the sale of Chinese matchbox firecrackers has peaked. Children and young people can be seen setting off these firecrackers in streets and neighborhoods until late at night, causing a constant noise from the afternoon until midnight.
These Chinese firecrackers, available in matchbox-sized packets for Rs 100, are easily bought by children with their pocket money. Young people often tear them off rooftops and throw them into the streets, causing disputes when they fall on neighboring rooftops.
Despite complaints, the sale, purchase and use of these firecrackers continues unabated. Sparklers and other fireworks are also openly sold in residential areas.
The city police officer has directed police stations across the city to register cases against those involved in aerial firing, fireworks and use of firecrackers in Shab-e-Barat.
