Pune, 10th September 2024: The Ganeshotsav celebrations in Pune this year have brought to light a concerning issue of noise pollution. Reports from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) show that noise levels at various Ganesh Mandals have exceeded the permissible limits set by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
In an effort to combat this problem, the MPCB, along with a private organization and National Service Scheme (NSS) students, have been monitoring noise levels at 200 Ganesh Mandals in the city. Measurements are taken daily from 6 pm to midnight to ensure compliance with the NGT’s regulations.
Despite the legal noise limits of 75 decibels during the day and 70 decibels at night, recent readings have shown levels ranging from 75 to 85 decibels at the Mandals. This indicates a widespread issue with noise pollution during the festival.
Dr. Kalyani Mandke had raised concerns about this problem by filing a petition with the NGT, which led to the issuance of directives to reduce noise pollution. Among these directives is a ban on loudspeakers exceeding 100 watts and limiting dhol-tasha troupes to no more than 30 players.
The MPCB is actively monitoring compliance with these regulations, with Regional Officer Jagannath Salunke stating, “Ganesh Mandals exceeding permissible limits are being instructed to lower their noise output. The police are responsible for enforcing the 30-player limit for dhol-tasha troupes.”
The noise level limits are categorized based on different zones, with industrial areas allowed 75 dB during the day and 70 dB at night, commercial areas allowed 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night, residential areas allowed 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night, and Zones of Peace allowed 50 dB during the day and 40 dB at night.
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