The authorities in Afghanistan have reportedly instituted a comprehensive nationwide ban on the use of fireworks, firecrackers, and all other pyrotechnic devices during weddings and festive gatherings. This information was disseminated by the Pajhwok Afghan News agency.

The restrictive decree was allegedly issued on October 27 by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. The new regulations reportedly encompass not only the public use of pyrotechnics but also their manufacturing, importation, commercial sale, purchase, and distribution.

Observers note that this is supposedly not the administration's initial attempt to curb the proliferation of fireworks. Previously, localized restrictions had been implemented in select urban centers, including Kabul, prohibiting the discharge of firecrackers during specific nighttime hours between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

The ministry has purportedly justified the sweeping measure by citing public welfare concerns, claiming that loud explosive noises induce fear and severe psychological distress among the populace. Officials argue that such disturbances disproportionately affect vulnerable demographics, specifically children, women, the elderly, and patients recovering in hospitals.

Individuals found violating the new directives will allegedly face punitive measures in accordance with domestic regulations and local legal norms. However, specific penal sanctions or enforcement details have not been explicitly clarified by the authorities.

Source: www.gazeta.uz