Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Demand for firecrackers to skyrocket ahead of consecration ceremony but a PIL is also filed in High Court?

Ahead of the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22nd, an extensive firecracker market has been established. The Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers Association, renowned for producing firecrackers nationwide, reports a demand comparable to Diwali for the consecration of the Ram Mandir.

The preparations indicate that a firecracker market exceeding Rs 250 crore is set to operate on the inauguration day of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. When considering the nationwide production of firecrackers, the overall market value surpasses Rs 400 crore. As per the All India Firework Traders Association, January 22nd will witness a market on par with the scale of Diwali.

Sale has increased in cities and capitals of all major states

The entire nation is gearing up to joyously celebrate Diwali once more in honor of the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. The market is witnessing a significant surge in the sale of firecrackers. 

Not only are there continuous orders pouring in from various regions, but the sale of fireworks has also seen a notable uptick in the urban centers and capitals of major states across the country. According to the Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers Association, the demand for firecrackers has soared alongside the preparations for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Glory of Diwali has returned

Sanjay Murugan, a representative of the Association, said that the Diwali market has faced a decline due to the prohibition of firecrackers. Initially valued at Rs 700 to 900 crores during Diwali, the market has dwindled to around Rs 400 crore due to reduced demand. However, the festive spirit of Diwali has experienced a resurgence with the inauguration of the Ram Temple.

Murugan mentions that projections indicate the market for manufacturers associated with the Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers Association across the country could reach Rs 200 to 250 crore by January 20. Additionally, the market for firecrackers produced in various states is estimated to be around Rs 150 crore.

Anoop Jaiswal, the Secretary of the Indian Fireworks Organization, says that the entire nation is filled with enthusiasm for the Ram Temple. This fervor has sparked renewed preparations for Diwali celebrations throughout the country.

PIL filed

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, seeking a prohibition on the sale and detonation of firecrackers on January 22, the day of the consecration of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. A hearing on this matter is scheduled for January 18.

Motilal Yadav, a local advocate, asserted in the petition that current air pollution levels are alarmingly high in various cities, including Lucknow. Citing recent reports in 'Amar Ujala' and other newspapers, the petition highlighted that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lucknow is dangerously elevated compared to other cities.

The petitioner expressed concerns that the widespread bursting of firecrackers on January 22 could exacerbate the already hazardous air quality. According to the petitioner, approximately 200 vendors in Lucknow alone have been granted licenses to sell firecrackers. In light of these issues, the petitioner has appealed for directives to either halt or revoke the issuance of these licenses.