More than 600 fireworks units protest against new rules

More than 600 firework units in and around the nationally famous cracker hub of Sivakasi remained closed today to protest against the new regulations brought in by the government in the wake of recent mishaps. Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association President Vijayakumar said the new rules, including laying of cement roads inside the factory and maintaining a 45 metre gap between two sheds, were not feasible. "This will only lead to wastage of material, space and also accidents," he said. Several representations had been made to the Explosives Controller to withdraw the new rules but in vain, he said. Association office bearers also met the Explosives Controller of Sivakasi region and submitted a memorandum to him. Virudhunagar district in southern Tamil Nadu is famous for the thriving cracker manufacturing industry with Sivakasi taluk dotted with hundreds of such units which cater to the needs of fireworks across the country and overseas. Fire mishaps in the units have been a recurring problem, bringing to fore the safety measures.