New Delhi, Nov 2 (KNN) The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs has issued a fresh public appeal stating ‘not to use foreign origin firecrackers as it endanger lives and harm the environment as well.’

The authority stated that the possession and sale of fireworks of foreign origin is illegal and punishable under the law owing to presence of ‘Sulphur or Sulphurate’.

Presence of such chemicals in firecrackers along with ‘Chlorate’ is hazardous for nature and can ignite spontaneously, said CBIC.

Such firecrackers endanger lives, cause accidents, and harm the environment, it added.

In the interest of safety & security, CBIC has requested the citizens of the country to report any information about possession and/or sale of such fireworks of foreign origin to the Jurisdictional Customs or Goods & Services Tax (GST) Authorities in their respective cities.

One such precautionary action can save lives, prevent accidents and protect the environment, CBIC made an appeal to public.

The Customs authorities have booked 43 cases in last four years, wherein foreign origin firecrackers valued at over Rs.104 crore seized and 16 persons arrested.

For the safety of environment and public, the concerned authorities have requested the public to use only products made in India during festive season.