The Mizoram government has banned fire crackers and other pyrotechnic materials in view of Christmas and New Year celebration.
The ban, which is a common practice in the state, is to ensure peace and tranquillity and to observe the sanctity of the greatest Christian festival, said a top police official on Wednesday.
Prohibitory orders in this regard were issued by all district magistrates on Monday, the official said.
The orders banned import and selling of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic materials during festive season.
Burning of crackers during the festive season is also banned, he said.
The ban is valid for two months from the date of issue of the orders and any violators are liable to be punished as per law, the official added.
Bursting of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic materials, including bullet propelled toy guns is a usual practice in the Christian dominated state.
The primary purpose is to enable people to celebrate Christmas and New Year under peaceful environment and pollution free.
In the bygone years, the government had successfully banned firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials during festive season.
Security has also been beefed up in the state in view of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Meanwhile, streets in the state capital were crowded with people for Christmas shopping.
The state government has announced no vehicle zone at area between Chanmari and Zodin square, the commercial centre of the state capital to ease public for Christmas shopping.