Sivakasi PESO office should be upgraded for better decision-making: fireworks manufacturers’ body

Indian Fireworks Association has appealed to the Union government to upgrade the Sivakasi office of Petroleum and Explosive Organisation (PESO) with Joint Chief Controller of Explosives as the head for better decision-making process.

In a petition addressed to the Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, association president J. Tamilselvan said PESO’s licensing powers should be delegated to the Sivakasi office as it had been till March 2023. Besides, adequate number of office staff should be posted there, he said.

The association also urged the Centre to seek clarification about joined crackers from the Supreme Court. Similarly, efforts should be taken to revive usage of barium nitrate in fireworks production.

Mr. Tamilselvan said the number of fireworks shops in each cluster of shops should be restricted up to 50 with prior approval from PESO.