Firecrackers will be banned in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, during the traditional Chinese New Year, local media reported Wednesday.

Phnom Penh authorities have forbidden people from shooting firecrackers to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year and warned that tough measures will be taken to punish transgressors.

The ban issued Monday is designed to maintain public security, safety and order in the city as Cambodian-Chinese and Vietnamese people are observing the festival, said Governor Kep Chuktema.

Kep Chuktema said gambling of all forms and religious processions are also prohibited during the celebrations, which fall from January 28 to January 31.

"Please, all people in Phnom Penh who hold Chinese and Vietnamese traditions, understand the Phnom Penh Municipality by not burning firecrackers to produce explosive sounds," he was quoted by Rasmei Kampuchea as saying.

Kep Chuktema said that China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand, which firmly believe in Chinese traditions and customs, have stopped using firecrackers for a long time for the sake of peace.

He said local officials have to take strict action to prevent the import of firecrackers and confiscate the products available at shops.

The governor said those who violate the ban will be punished by law to a greater degree than in previous years.

Source: Xinhua