Malda: Fireworks trade cluster outside municipality area in pipeline

Malda: The district administration has taken an initiative to create a firecracker stocking and wholesale trade zone outside English Bazar Municipality (EBM) area. This initiative comes in the wake of the fire at Netaji Municipal Market on May 23, claiming the lives of two persons. Necessary steps are being taken in this regard through discussions with trade associations.

The additional district magistrate (land and land reforms) said that preparations are underway to create a cluster outside the municipal area for firecracker traders.

Incidentally, on May 23, Malda was shaken by an explosion from carbide and stockpiled fireworks at Netaji Municipal Market of English Bazar. The explosion claimed the lives of two labourers. With serious questions being raised regarding stocking of explosives in the crowded market area having over 1,000 shops, it was decided that there would be no stockpiling of fireworks, carbide or even matches in crowded areas. Arrangements would be made for these stocks and wholesale businesses outside the EBM area.

The district administration has asked the Merchants Chamber of Commerce for a list of those who want to set up godowns for such businesses in the outskirts of the town.

Jayanta Kundu, president of Malda Merchants Chamber of Commerce, said: “Government spaces will be allotted to stockists who have licenses for stocking and wholesale of these items. This system is to prevent any accidents. A list of willing stockists and wholesalers was sought by the administration. We have already handed over a list of 80 people to the district administration. However, the location has not yet been decided. Shops will be provided in a cluster.”

Shampa Hazra, Additional District Magistrate (Land and Land Reforms), said: “Any inflammable material cannot be stored within the English Bazar town henceforth. Traders have already been informed about it. These can be stored outside the town. The government is looking for a place for this. The allocated space cannot be transferred to other persons. A cluster will be handed over. The government will help to build the infrastructure there.”

Manbendra Mandal, General Manager of the District Industrial Center (DIC), said: “I have sent the list to the higher authorities. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) department has been asked for approval and necessary allocation in this regard. The idea is to make a cluster in one place outside the town but not in a very remote area.”