The Crackdown on Kimbulapitiya's Fireworks

 

The fireworks industry in Kimbulapitiya, Sri Lanka, is facing a dangerous decline. Once the heartbeat of festive celebrations, the challenges now facing this centuries-old tradition are threatening its very survival. From reduced chemical quotas to the safety risks of an informal industry, here’s a look at the issues lighting up the firecracker business.

Reduced Chemical Quotas: A Dimming Spark

The most pressing issue for fireworks manufacturers like Priyantha Henry Peters is the reduction in the quota of essential chemicals. These materials, such as perchlorate and saltpeter, are key to creating the characteristic noise and effects in firecrackers. Priyantha, a veteran in the industry, has seen his annual quota of perchlorate slashed from 300 bundles to just 25. This restriction is making it difficult to meet production demands and is pushing manufacturers towards the black market for supplies, where prices have soared.

Black Market Crisis: Paying a High Price

With the government placing strict controls on chemical components, fireworks makers are increasingly forced to rely on the black market. The price of perchlorate, a vital ingredient for making noise in firecrackers, has soared to Rs. 90,000 per kilo. This marks a dramatic increase, further exacerbating the financial challenges faced by small and medium manufacturers who are already struggling with reduced quotas and rising production costs.

The Safety Hazard: Workers in Peril

The fireworks industry is inherently dangerous, and despite improvements over the years, safety remains a serious concern. Priyantha’s workshop shows an example of extra precautions, but in general, workers in this industry often lack the proper training and safety equipment. Without masks or protective gear, they work in close proximity to volatile chemicals and gunpowder. The high-risk nature of the job has resulted in accidents, with several fatalities reported annually due to misfired fireworks. Safety remains a major issue in this informal industry, with many workers exposed to hazardous conditions.

 Economic Strain: From Festive Boom to Post-Season Gloom

While the fireworks industry generates significant revenue during the Avurudu (New Year) season, the post-season market barely sustains manufacturers. Priyantha earns substantial profits during the peak season—around Rs. 30-40 lakhs—but outside of that period, the business struggles to cover basic expenses like staff wages and vehicle leases. The stark contrast between the high profits of the season and the meager post-season earnings puts a heavy financial burden on manufacturers who depend on this business for their livelihoods.

 Informal Industry: No Safety Net for Manufacturers

Operating in an informal capacity, fireworks manufacturers in Kimbulapitiya face an uphill battle without the support of government infrastructure or clear legal frameworks. While they are required to pay an annual license fee of Rs. 4,000-4,500, the lack of consistent resources, such as access to key raw materials, is creating a precarious future for the industry. Priyantha’s appeal to the government is simple: he wants a fair allocation of chemicals to meet production targets, but the government has yet to address this issue adequately.

6. A Glimmer of Hope: Can the Government Act?

Despite the numerous challenges, Kimbulapitiya’s fireworks industry remains a vital part of Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic landscape. As families in the region rely on this industry for their livelihood, there is hope that the government will provide better support. This includes ensuring the provision of chemical quotas and improving safety standards for workers. For Priyantha and others in the business, a little assistance from the government could mean the difference between keeping the industry alive and letting it fizzle out.

 Fizzling Out or Firing Up for a Revival?

The future of the fireworks industry in Kimbulapitiya hangs in the balance. With government restrictions on key ingredients, rising costs, and safety concerns, the vibrant tradition of firework-making is in jeopardy. Yet, as long as manufacturers like Priyantha continue their fight, there remains a glimmer of hope that this essential part of Sri Lanka’s heritage can be saved. The industry’s survival depends on better support, both in terms of resources and regulation, from the government.