The Bombay High Court has recently issued strict directives regarding the implementation of guidelines related to sound pollution in the state of Maharashtra. This decision comes in response to the ongoing issue of extreme sound pollution during various festivals, political events, and other gatherings in the state.
The court has referenced previous directions issued in 2016 and emphasized the need for their full implementation. Any deliberate disobedience of these guidelines can result in legal action by affected parties. The aim is to address the widespread problem of hazardous sound pollution, particularly during events like the Ganesh festival.
During the 2023 Ganesh festival, several cities in Maharashtra experienced dangerously high levels of sound pollution due to the illegal use of certain sound systems and laser beams. There have been reports of deaths and eye damage as a result of this pollution. The court’s decision has been welcomed by advocates for consumer rights, who stress the importance of monitoring and reporting sound levels during events.
Various government departments and agencies in Maharashtra were named as respondents in the petition, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue. The court’s ruling also emphasizes that no religion permits the breaking of laws in the name of celebration, and the use of loudspeakers is not a protected religious practice.
The enforcement of Noise Pollution Rules is mandatory, yet reports suggest that these regulations are often ignored, particularly in cities like Pune. The permitted decibel levels are regularly exceeded, causing significant harm to residents. The court has called for stricter enforcement of these rules, especially in silence zones near sensitive locations like hospitals and schools.
Despite existing regulations, political rallies and religious festivals continue to flout noise pollution laws with impunity. The lack of enforcement by authorities, coupled with the emergence of hazardous laser beams at events, further complicates the issue. The court has urged affected parties to report violations to the police and take legal action if necessary.
Overall, the Bombay High Court’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing sound pollution in Maharashtra and upholding existing regulations to protect public health and well-being.
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