Firecracker celebrations banned in clubs, bars and pubs ahead of New Year after Goa tragedy

New Delhi: In the wake of the deadly fire tragedy at a night club in Goa that claimed the lives of 25 people, the Delhi Police have issued strict guidelines ahead of New Year celebrations, banning the use of firecrackers in clubs, bars, pubs and restaurants across the national capital.

With New Year festivities approaching and large crowds expected at entertainment venues, the police have taken preventive steps to ensure public safety and avoid any untoward incidents. As per the directions, no form of fireworks will be permitted inside or within the premises of hotels, clubs, bars or restaurants. This includes traditional firecrackers, green crackers and even electric fireworks.

The Delhi Police have issued notices to all registered Hotel, Club and Restaurant (HCR) establishments in the city, clearly instructing them to comply with the new safety norms. According to official data, there are around 950 registered bars, clubs and restaurants in Delhi, and all of them have been formally informed about the restrictions.

Authorities have stressed that fire safety arrangements must be fully functional at all venues. Establishments have been directed to ensure that fire-fighting equipment, emergency exits and evacuation systems are in proper working condition. License renewals will be closely scrutinised, and any violation of fire safety norms or licensing conditions will invite strict action, police warned.

The guidelines also state that no fireworks or celebratory fire displays of any kind should be conducted within HCR premises during New Year events. Venue owners have been instructed to cooperate fully with police inspections and adhere to safety protocols without exception.

Apart from the firecracker ban, the police have asked organisers of New Year parties, whether in public or private spaces, to strictly follow crowd management and security guidelines. Special emphasis has been laid on the safety of women and children. The police have advised the deployment of trained security personnel, including women bouncers, at venues hosting large gatherings.

Traffic police will intensify checks against drunk driving, with special drives planned across the city on New Year’s Eve. In addition, plainclothes police personnel will be deployed in sensitive areas to monitor crowds and prevent crimes.

Officials said the measures are purely preventive and aimed at ensuring that New Year celebrations remain safe and incident-free. The Delhi Police have urged citizens and event organisers to cooperate, follow the guidelines and celebrate responsibly, keeping public safety as the top priority.

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