Jatni, Nov 4 (UDN): Diwali celebrations are set to become more expensive for people in Odisha this year, with firecracker prices witnessing a sharp increase of 23 to 35 per cent compared to last year. The festive market is also facing a shortage of supplies, adding to the challenges for traders and consumers ahead of the festival.
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The price surge has been attributed to rising raw material costs, with the ongoing US-Iran conflict reportedly adding pressure to the firecracker manufacturing and supply chain. Dealers say the combined impact of higher production costs and reduced supplies has affected the availability and pricing of several varieties of crackers.
Sivakasi manufacturers revise prices, dealers cut orders
A large share of Odisha’s licensed firecracker dealers source their products from Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu, one of India’s largest firecracker manufacturing centres.
Traditionally, wholesalers place advance orders and make payments in December and January to secure supplies for the following Diwali season. However, when dealers approached manufacturers to collect their consignments in June, they reportedly faced demands for additional payments following an increase in raw material costs.
According to Trilochan Patnaik, president of the All Odisha Fireworks Dealers Association, manufacturers offered dealers two options: pay the revised prices to receive the full quantity ordered or accept reduced supplies against their advance payments.
Faced with the situation, several dealers chose to receive smaller consignments rather than bear the additional financial burden.
Patnaik acknowledged that the increase in procurement costs would ultimately affect retail prices and put pressure on consumers during the festive season.
Green crackers remain the permitted option
Amid growing concerns over air and noise pollution, regulatory restrictions on conventional firecrackers have also shaped this year’s market.
Only permitted PESO-approved green crackers can be sold, in accordance with applicable regulations and court directions. These products are designed to reduce harmful emissions and environmental impact.
Wholesalers say QR codes printed on green cracker packaging allow consumers to check product-related information and verify authenticity. However, allegations of counterfeit QR codes have raised concerns about the reliability of verification.
Dealers have called for stronger monitoring and verification by the concerned authorities to prevent the circulation of fake products and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Jatni records firecracker business worth over Rs 10 crore
Despite higher prices and reduced supplies, Jatni continues to remain one of Odisha’s major wholesale destinations for firecrackers.
Around six to seven wholesale dealers in the town have reportedly brought stocks worth more than Rs 10 crore for the Diwali season. Retail traders from Jatni and four to five neighbouring districts depend on these wholesalers to procure their festive supplies.
The market is expected to witness considerable business activity in the run-up to Diwali, although the reduced availability of certain varieties may affect overall sales.
117 firecracker shops approved at Sharata Paikray Stadium
Safety arrangements have also been tightened in Jatni to prevent fire accidents and manage crowds in busy commercial areas.
Since 2016, the local police administration has restricted firecracker shops to designated open spaces away from residential neighbourhoods.
This year, permission has been granted to 117 shops within the Sharata Paikray Stadium premises. Around 40 applications have also reportedly been received for setting up shops along Talakheta Chhak road.
Jatni Fire Officer Sushant Kumar Sahu said shopkeepers had been instructed to maintain adequate distance between stalls, ensure proper access roads and keep essential firefighting materials readily available.
These include sand, water and gunny bags. Fire officials are conducting regular inspections, and violations of safety instructions may invite action.
Traffic congestion raises concerns ahead of Diwali
While designated vending areas are intended to improve public safety, the stretch between Talakheta Chhak and Gobindpur remains a major concern for residents.
The presence of roadside firecracker shops could lead to traffic congestion and create difficulties for emergency vehicles. Last year, commuters reportedly remained stranded for several hours along the route due to heavy traffic.
Residents have urged the police and local administration to introduce effective traffic management measures, regulate roadside vending and ensure adequate emergency access to prevent a repeat of last year’s situation.
With prices climbing, supplies tightening and safety arrangements under scrutiny, Odisha’s firecracker trade faces a challenging festive season. For consumers, this Diwali is likely to bring higher expenses, while traders will be hoping for smooth sales and accident-free celebrations.