Nepal has banned the use of firecrackers to avoid any mishaps during Deepawali celebrations in the Himalayan country this year.

The ban imposes restrictions on import, trading and use of fireworks, crackers and sparklers during the five-day festival which begins on October 21, a statement from the home ministry said.

The statement has asked guardians to ensure their wards stay away from fireworks adding, that those found violating the ban will have to face punishment.