Pune’s senior citizens have raised concerns about the increasing noise pollution and traffic chaos during the Ganeshotsav festival in the city. In letters addressed to Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, they highlighted the peaceful and orderly nature of the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi processions, which see lakhs of warkaris passing through Pune without causing any disruptions.
The Palkhi processions cover a distance of 25 km in just 10-12 hours, showcasing a disciplined and respectful approach to public events. However, the senior citizens lamented that the Ganeshotsav celebrations have become too noisy and chaotic, with the use of DJ music and laser lights adding to the disturbances.
The letters called for a ban on DJ music and laser lights during the Ganeshotsav festival, emphasizing the need to preserve the original significance of the festival and show consideration for the city’s residents. They also highlighted the strain on the police force during the festival period, as a mere 3-4 km immersion procession can take up to 32 hours to complete.
Residents along the immersion procession route find it difficult to stay at home for two days, and the high noise levels during the festival can have adverse effects on people’s health. The permitted noise levels in residential areas are exceeded during Ganeshotsav, posing risks of slow deafness, cardiovascular illness, and dizziness.
Senior citizens like Vilas Lele and Chandrashekhar Kulkarni have called for a more thoughtful and considerate approach to the Ganeshotsav festival, urging for restrictions on noise levels and the use of harmful elements like laser lights. They believe that celebrations can still be joyous and vibrant without causing discomfort to residents, especially children, the elderly, and patients.
As the city gears up for the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will take heed of these concerns and implement measures to ensure a more peaceful and harmonious celebration for all Pune residents.
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