Warning: R2 500 fine for use of illegal Diwali fireworks

According to the municipality, fireworks may be used on approved days, which currently include Diwali (November 8) between sunset and midnight and on December 31 from 11.45pm to 12.15am the following day.

eThekwini residents who break municipal by-laws governing fireworks use during Diwali face a R2 500 fine, the municipality has warned.

In a reminder issued ahead of the Hindu festival, eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila urged residents to buy fireworks only from authorised dealers, supervise children and keep pets safely indoors to protect them from loud noises.

According to the municipality, fireworks may be used on approved days, which currently include Diwali (November 8) between sunset and midnight and on December 31 from 11.45pm until 12.15am the following day.

“The city is guided by the Nuisances and Public Behaviour By-law as well as the National Control of Explosives/Fireworks. Anyone found in contravention of the city by-laws will be fined.

“Even though fireworks are beautiful and exciting to watch, they can also be potentially dangerous because fireworks can cause damage to your property and harm your family or pets,” said Mzila.

He advised residents to ensure that fireworks were purchased from authorised dealers displaying the relevant South African Police Service permits and sold in sealed packages.

“No person may allow or permit any child under the age of 16 years to handle or use fireworks, except under the supervision of an adult.

“We encourage you to keep an eye on your pets and to keep them safely indoors where possible as animals are easily frightened by fireworks and can become distressed or try to escape and run away,” Mzila said.

Meanwhile, the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) has reaffirmed the Hindu community’s constitutional rights to religious freedom and equality ahead of Diwali, warning that hate speech, racial hostility and discrimination must not be allowed to undermine the country’s cultural diversity.

The organisation has appointed a team of volunteer attorneys to assist the Hindu community in addressing anticipated racism, discrimination and anti-Hindu sentiment.

The annual celebrations have, at times, prompted hostility and inflammatory commentary over fireworks, particularly on social media.

Simi Sharma, chairperson of the SAHMS legal team, said the initiative sought to educate the public about constitutional rights, promote cultural tolerance and provide the community with legal support where necessary.

"In terms of the Constitutional principles, Hindus have a right to celebrate with fireworks. It is one or two nights that, as South Africans, we can enjoy the celebrations of the Hindu community. We trust that all those celebrating will do so responsibly.

"The SAHMS supports the responsible use of fireworks which has been an inherent part of celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights. It is important to comply with local municipal by-laws, as well as being mindful of fellow residents and their animals.”