Gangtok,August24:The irresponsible handling of explosives issued to assist developmental projects
including hydro projects in state led to rather indiscriminate proliferation of explosive materials in unauthorized circles, has forced the State Government to issue a set of regulations governing the handling and storage of explosive materials in Sikkim, and at the same time reiterate the rules and regulations already laid down in this regards. Apart from issuing various directives in this regards, certain findings have also been made regarding the rather casual approach of various authorities in the handling and usage of such material.
The issue of the irresponsible handling, disposal and use of such explosive materials has been a major as well as sensitive issue here,particularly after several instances of inept handling and endangerment due to ‘transgressions’ were reported last year ,particularly the discovery of the over 2000 detonators in South Sikkim and also the incident of a detonator ending up as a toy in hands of a school kid from Rhenock.
In this regard, a circular has been issued by government of Sikkim to regulate the usage in view of the several instances where valuable lives and property have been threatened by the indiscreet and careless attitude of various individuals and organizations…”It further states that inadequate supervision over chain of custody has resulted in the explosives substances being passed on to unauthorized persons and groups. The unrestricted issue of explosives for construction works irrespective of the requirement and improper supervision has further compounded the problem,states the official circular.
The Circular makes it clear that NOC from the DM can be issued only after a police report and an undertaking from the applicant that all measures shall be undertaken to ensure safe keeping of explosive materials; further a license holder can keep explosive substances only at the approved magazine locations and not in any other unauthorized location.
At present in many cases it is being issued to contractors who themselves do not hold any license..”it points out. The police authority has to certify that all the measures for safe guarding including security and fire fighting. At present other than hydel projects most of the explosive locations are being guarded by the unarmed chowkidars. It is also clarified that permission for the portable magazine can only be given by the Chief Controller of Explosives; Ballistic procedures are to be carried out by approved Blasters.Further, it explicitly stated that The Site In Charge shall be personally responsible for any misuse and misplacement of any explosive substance under his charge.
