Hubballi: Amid drought conditions in Dharwad and neighbouring districts, cracker traders are gearing up to open temporary shops at Nehru Stadium in Hubballi after receiving permission from authorities. A total of 11 cracker and fireworks traders have been allowed to operate from the venue, subject to strict compliance with safety norms and the sale of only green crackers.Officials have directed traders to adhere to all prescribed guidelines and conditions while conducting business at the stadium. Traders said preparations are under way to commence sales at the designated location, with the arrangement aimed at ensuring regulated and safe operations during the festive season.Cracker and fireworks traders expressed optimism about better business compared to previous years, when sales were affected by heavy rains. This year, they said, demand is expected to depend largely on purchases linked to Ganesh festival celebrations. At the same time, they remain cautious due to the prevailing drought conditions in Dharwad and surrounding districts.According to traders, farmers constitute a significant share of festival customers, and sales prospects are closely tied to their purchasing capacity. They noted that many families traditionally buy and burst crackers during domestic Ganesh celebrations, with demand usually peaking around immersion days.Vimal Talikoti, an office-bearer of the Crackers and Fireworks Traders Association, said concerns over sluggish business have prompted most traders to maintain lower inventories this season. He said traders have deliberately restricted stock levels because of uncertain demand while ensuring sufficient supplies to meet customer requirements during the festival.The temporary shops at Nehru Stadium will remain operational until the fifth day of Ganesha feastival celebrations, after which they will be dismantled. Talikoti said the fifth day typically witnesses the immersion of a large number of domestic Ganeshas, making it the busiest period for cracker sales. Since bursting crackers is a common feature of household Ganesh festivities, traders expect a brief but intense spell of business during the first few days of the festival.
