Hubballi: Firecracker traders want to sell before Ganesh Puja

HUBBALLI: Traders engaged in the sale of firecrackers, who were worried when sales plummeted following Covid-19 two years ago, are pinning their hopes on the upcoming Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations. In the twin cities, vendors have appealed to the authorities for permission to sell firecrackers ahead of the festival.
The pandemic restrictions by the government forced families to scale down celebrations of festivals, including Diwali, which translated to reduced expenditure on firecrackers.
Traders pointed out that restrictions, which included limiting their outlay exclusively to green crackers, had left a huge dent in their earnings for the past few years. Citing the flattened Covid curve in the district, the traders have sought permission to start selling firecrackers ahead of the festive season.
Secretary of Hubballi Fire Works’ Association, Vimal Talikoti said that they were among the worst-affected business communities following the Covid-induced crisis. “We are hoping for support from the government, and have approached the civic agencies. We are hoping the response is positive,” he said.
For the past few years, a ban on the sale of firecrackers from China has eaten into profits, Talikoti added. Across Hubballi, there are 10 licenced firecracker traders. Talikoti said they could set up stalls at Nehru Stadium, if granted permission. Dharwad DC Gururdatta Hegde said there were no restrictions on the sale of firecrackers. “If people approach us for permission to sell green crackers and adhere to the norms, we will support them,” he said.
People from not only across Dharwad, but from across North Karnataka, flock to Hubballi for firecrackers. Hubballi-based activist, Mohan C, said firecrackers were a source of amusement for children. “But the authorities should ensure that traders abide by the norms,” Mohan added.