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Old Town Dusseldorf again experiences fireworks breach despite ban; authorities seemingly unable to enforce rules

Despite the implementation of a fireworks ban in Düsseldorf's historical district on New Year's Eve, the restriction proved to be ineffective as the sky was swiftly illuminated with numerous fireworks displays starting after 10 PM.

Violation of Fireworks Ban in Dusseldorf's Old Town: Authorities Struggle to Enforce Restrictions
Violation of Fireworks Ban in Dusseldorf's Old Town: Authorities Struggle to Enforce Restrictions

Old Town Dusseldorf again experiences fireworks breach despite ban; authorities seemingly unable to enforce rules

In the heart of Düsseldorf's old town, the New Year's Eve celebration of 2025 was marked by a disregard for the fireworks ban zone. Despite the efforts of the police and local authorities to remove fireworks from circulation, the festivities saw a continuous influx of pyrotechnics, with every packet seized seemingly replaced by several more brought in by visitors.

Most fireworks remained undetected during the celebration, with employees of the Düsseldorf local authority disposing of seized fireworks directly into water containers. The police, however, were not deterred and focused on targeted "stings" rather than a widespread intervention. They pulled out identified rocket-lighters from the crowd via video or spontaneously.

The defiance against the authorities was palpable, with young men dancing around a spraying fire fountain and others celebrating as self-proclaimed fire dancers. The revelry took a concerning turn when rockets were shot towards the Rhine, posing a potential danger to the crowd. Given their hand-held nature, these fireworks were difficult to apprehend.

Visitors from the Rhine poured into the old town after 1 am, continuing the celebrations into the first hours of 2025. Fireworks, rockets, cannons, and fountains were frequently set off along the Rhine, particularly at the Burgplatz near the Schlossturm. Some groups waved Syrian national flags while dancing and celebrating, adding to the vibrant and diverse atmosphere.

Regrettably, the festivities took a somber turn when a woman's hair was partially burned during the celebration. It is a reminder that the misuse of fireworks can lead to unfortunate incidents, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety regulations.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of New Year's Eve in Düsseldorf's old town remained undeterred, with the crowd continuing to ring in the New Year with cheer and enthusiasm. As the city looks towards the future, it is hoped that a safer and more controlled celebration can be achieved while preserving the joyous spirit of the occasion.

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