Andhra Pradesh tightens fireworks safety rules after fatal blasts

New nodal authorities, dedicated safety cell and digital monitoring portal planned; officials to face accountability for lapses VIJAYAWADA The Andhra Pradesh government has overhauled its fireworks safety, licensing and enforcement framework following explosions at fireworks manufacturing units in Rayavaram and Vetlapalem, introducing a system of centralised monitoring, risk-based inspections and stricter accountability for enforcement officials. Vetlapalem explosion exposes unsafe conditions at firecracker manufacturing units storyline 1 The reforms were notified through a government order G.O. Ms.

No. 234 dated November 7, 2026, issued by Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad, following the findings of inquiry committees, which pointed to fragmented enforcement and inadequate risk-based monitoring.

Under the new framework, the Director-General of the A.P. State Disaster Response and Fire Services has been designated as the State Nodal Authority to coordinate enforcement, conduct monthly inter-departmental reviews and submit compliance reports to the Home Department.