Diwali is a festival of lights, happiness and togetherness. However, the celebrations in Mumbai and neighbouring areas during November 2026 were accompanied by a worrying rise in firecracker-related fire incidents, causing loss of life, injuries and significant property damage.
According to reports published on November 12, Mumbai recorded 499 fire calls between November 6 and 10, of which 333 incidents, approximately 67%, were attributed to fireworks. Across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, more than 1,000 fires linked to Diwali celebrations, including firecrackers and diyas, were reported during the same five-day period.
The incidents resulted in two deaths and eight injuries in Mumbai, highlighting the serious risks associated with unsafe firecracker use and storage.
Major Fire Incidents Reported During Diwali 2026
1. Firecracker Shop Blaze in Malvani, Malad – One Teenager Dies
One of the most tragic incidents occurred on November 9, 2026, at a firecracker shop near Gate No. 8, Malvani, Malad West, Mumbai.
The fire reportedly broke out at approximately 9:56 PM after sparks from fireworks ignited firecrackers stored inside the shop. The incident triggered a series of explosions, and the shop’s slab subsequently collapsed.
A 16-year-old boy, identified as Shahnawaz Niyaz Khan, was trapped inside the premises and suffered fatal burn injuries. He was later declared dead at the hospital.
The fire was brought under control within approximately 40 minutes. The incident raised serious concerns about the storage of fireworks, safety arrangements at temporary firecracker stalls and the risks of keeping combustible materials near ignition sources.
2. Fire Destroys Six Labourers’ Huts in Pratiksha Nagar, Sion
Another serious incident occurred on November 10 in Pratiksha Nagar, Sion, Mumbai, where a fire spread across a row of labourers’ huts.
Six huts were reportedly destroyed in the blaze. Multiple explosions occurred after LPG cylinders caught fire, making firefighting operations more challenging.
A firefighter sustained injuries while responding to the emergency.
The incident highlighted the additional danger posed when fire spreads in densely populated areas where LPG cylinders and other combustible materials are present.
3. Firecracker-Related Fire Tragedy in Andheri
A separate fatal firecracker-related incident was reported at Runwal Elegante, Andheri Lokhandwala, on November 6.
The incident claimed the life of a lift operator, Dhanpat Mahto. The tragedy highlighted the risks faced not only by people celebrating festivals but also by security staff, maintenance workers and other personnel working in residential buildings.
Navi Mumbai Also Reports a Rise in Fire Incidents
Navi Mumbai witnessed a significant number of fire incidents during the Diwali period.
According to reports, 150 fire calls were received across the Navi Mumbai region on November 8 and 9. These included 74 calls within Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation limits, 47 in CIDCO-administered areas and 29 in Panvel Municipal Corporation areas.
The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s Fire Department reported that nearly 90% of the incidents within its jurisdiction were linked to firecrackers.
Vashi, Nerul, Airoli and Koparkhairane were among the areas reporting multiple fire incidents. At least three houses suffered major property damage after rockets reportedly triggered fires.
Major Fire at Turbhe Shopping Centre
One of the significant incidents occurred at Turbhe Shopping Centre, where a fire broke out at a rooftop factory manufacturing paints, thinner and dies.
The premises reportedly contained substantial quantities of combustible and inflammable materials, including thinner, plastics and synthetic substances.
Firecrackers were being burst in the surrounding area, and a spark was suspected to have ignited the stored materials. The fire spread rapidly, producing thick smoke.
Fire brigade teams from Vashi and Nerul responded promptly and brought the fire under control within approximately an hour, preventing it from spreading to shops on the lower floors.
Fire Incident Statistics: A Serious Warning
The reported figures from the Diwali period underline the scale of the problem.
- Mumbai: 499 fire calls between November 6 and 10.
- Firecracker-related incidents in Mumbai: 333.
- Mumbai Metropolitan Region: More than 1,000 fires linked to Diwali celebrations.
- Mumbai casualties: Two deaths and eight injuries during the reported five-day period.
- Navi Mumbai region: 150 fire calls on November 8 and 9 across NMMC, CIDCO and Panvel areas.
- NMMC jurisdiction: Nearly 90% of reported incidents were attributed to firecrackers.
These figures demonstrate how fireworks can quickly turn festive celebrations into dangerous emergencies.
Important Fire Safety Precautions During Firecracker Celebrations
To prevent similar incidents in the future, individuals, housing societies, commercial establishments and firecracker vendors must follow essential safety precautions.
1. Maintain Safe Distance from Buildings
Never burst rockets or aerial fireworks near residential buildings, balconies, windows, parked vehicles, electrical installations or overhead cables.
2. Ensure Safe Storage of Firecrackers
Firecrackers should be stored in approved, designated and dry locations, away from heat sources, electrical equipment, open flames and combustible materials.
3. Avoid Fireworks Near LPG Cylinders and Chemicals
Never burst crackers near LPG cylinders, fuel storage areas, paint shops, chemical storage facilities or other locations containing flammable substances.
4. Keep Firefighting Equipment Ready
Keep water, sand and suitable fire extinguishers readily available wherever firecracker activities are permitted. Ensure that emergency access routes remain clear.
5. Protect Children and Senior Citizens
Children should never handle or light fireworks without responsible adult supervision. Maintain a safe distance and use appropriate protective clothing.
6. Never Reignite Failed Firecrackers
Do not approach or attempt to relight a firecracker that has failed to explode. Keep others away from the area.
7. Ensure Emergency Preparedness in Housing Societies
Residential complexes should maintain functional fire extinguishers, accessible fire exits, clear passages and emergency contact information. Security staff and residents should be familiar with basic emergency procedures.
8. Report Fire Emergencies Immediately
In the event of a fire, move people away from danger and contact the fire brigade immediately. Do not attempt to control a rapidly spreading fire without proper training and equipment.
Oustfire’s Fire Safety Message
The Diwali 2026 fire incidents across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and neighbouring areas serve as an important reminder that fire safety must never be overlooked during celebrations.
Safe storage of fireworks, responsible handling, regular inspection of electrical installations, functional firefighting systems and public awareness can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related emergencies.
Fire safety is not limited to industrial facilities and commercial buildings. It is equally important in residential societies, shops, warehouses, temporary stalls and public spaces.
Oustfire Safety Engineers Private Limited encourages individuals, businesses and housing societies to prioritise preventive fire safety measures and ensure that appropriate firefighting arrangements are in place.
Celebrate responsibly. Prevent fires. Protect lives.
Oustfire Safety Engineers Private Limited
Your Safety is Our Priority.
Website: www.oustfire.com
Email: sales@oustfire.com
Contact: +91 93242 59477
