Sat Oct 11 17:08:11 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text, formatted for a general audience:

**Headline: Tamil Nadu Issues Fire Safety Clearances for Deepavali Firecracker Sales**

**Chennai, October 11, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services (TNFRS) Department has given the green light to thousands of temporary firecracker shops across the state in preparation for the upcoming Deepavali festival. As of today, the department has issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to 6,630 shops, allowing them to proceed with the next steps for legally selling fireworks.

A senior TNFRS official stated that the department received a total of 9,549 applications this year. While 6,630 were approved, 2,499 remain under review, and 401 were rejected due to various safety concerns. Last year, the department approved 6,585 applications.

It’s crucial for applicants who have received NOCs to understand that this is just the first step. They must still obtain trade licenses from the District Revenue Officer (DRO) or the Commissioner of Police in their respective areas before they can begin selling fireworks.

Specifically, in the Chennai region, 416 out of 1,036 applications have been approved while the remainder are still under review and will be processed soon, according to a TNFRS official.

The TNFRS emphasizes strict adherence to safety guidelines. Shops cannot operate solely on an NOC and must possess a valid police license. Fireworks must be stored in secure, non-flammable sheds, separated by at least three meters from each other and fifty meters from any protected structure.

Open flames, including oil and gas lamps, are strictly prohibited near the sheds. Only fixed electrical lighting is allowed, with a master switch for each row of shops. The department also warned against selling fireworks in unauthorized locations such as wedding halls, commercial complexes, or residential buildings.

The TNFRS is also cracking down on illegal fireworks. The department warned that if imported or Chinese-made crackers are found, the shop’s NOC will be immediately cancelled, and legal action will be taken against the license holder.

The TNFRS is urging all sellers and buyers to adhere to safety regulations to ensure a safe and joyous Deepavali celebration.

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