Odisha Police Crack Down on Illegal Firecracker Trade Under ‘AGNI’ Drive
Bhubaneswar: In a major crackdown ahead of the festive season, Odisha Police have launched a statewide special drive titled ‘AGNI’ to curb the illegal storage, transportation, and sale of explosives and firecrackers. The operation, which began on October 11, has already resulted in massive seizures and multiple arrests across the State.
Officials said the drive, initiated under the direction of the Director General of Police (DGP), aims to dismantle unsafe and unauthorized networks operating in the firecracker trade. The campaign has significantly disrupted illegal supply chains and removed hazardous materials from circulation, enhancing public safety during the festive period.
According to police data, 41 cases have been registered under the Central Range so far, leading to the seizure of firecrackers worth ₹50.23 lakh. A total of 30 people have been arrested, eight have been served notices, and four others are yet to be apprehended.
Cuttack, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur Lead in Seizures
Among the districts under the Central Range, Jagatsinghpur reported the highest seizure, with illegal firecrackers worth ₹20.5 lakh recovered, followed by Puri (₹11.89 lakh) and Cuttack (₹5.35 lakh).
District-wise details reveal:
Cuttack: 19 cases registered; 17 arrests; crackers worth ₹5.35 lakh seized.
Puri: 12 cases; 8 arrests; crackers worth ₹11.89 lakh seized.
Jagatsinghpur: 2 cases; 2 arrests; crackers worth ₹20.5 lakh seized.
Kendrapara: 2 cases; 2 arrests; crackers worth ₹9.68 lakh seized.
Khordha: 3 cases; 1 arrest; crackers worth ₹2.45 lakh seized.
Nayagarh and Jajpur: 3 cases; notices served in all instances.
Police to Continue Enforcement Till October 24
A senior police official said the special drive will continue till October 24, with periodic operations and awareness campaigns to prevent recurrence of such violations.
“The objective of AGNI is not just enforcement but also public awareness. By curbing illegal firecracker trade, we aim to prevent accidents, safeguard lives, and ensure a safe festive season for all,” said an official of the Central Range Police.
The Odisha Police have urged citizens to purchase firecrackers only from authorized sellers and report any illegal storage or sales to local authorities.
