According to the notice issued by the Telangana police department, which came into immediate effect, this initiative is aimed at restoring public order and protect community health.
Published Oct 01, 2024 | 4:45 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 01, 2024 | 4:45 PM
Hyderabad Police bans loud music and firecrackers during religious processions
In a significant move to address rising concerns over noise pollution and public safety, the Hyderabad City Police issued a strict prohibition on the use of DJ sound systems, amplifiers, and firecrackers during religious processions.
This decision follows increasing complaints from residents and serious incidents linked to high-decibel noise levels during festive celebrations.
The Commissioner of Police, C.V. Anand, announced the regulation after convening a roundtable discussion with stakeholders, including religious procession organisers and representatives from various political parties.
Today we successfully conducted the Round Table Discussion on DJs and Firecrackers in Religious Processions. It was a difficult meeting to organise with representatives of all political parties -Congress , BJP, BRS, MIM , MBT, CPI , CPM, MRPS, TDP, and representatives of all… pic.twitter.com/RpdNEzv2Se
— CV Anand IPS (@CVAnandIPS) September 26, 2024
According to the notice issued by the Telangana police department, this initiative is aimed at restoring public order and protect community health amid a growing trend of louder and more competitive sound systems at these events.
“Prolonged exposure to high decibel levels is not just a nuisance; it poses serious health risks,” Anand stated. The police department noted a surge in complaints regarding noise pollution disrupting residents’ peace, particularly affecting the elderly and children’s education.
The notice mentioned a notable incident on September 19, when a generator used for a DJ system caught fire during a procession near Charminar, underscoring the dangers associated with high-volume celebrations. Fortunately, quick action prevented a major disaster, but it heightened fears of potential communal tensions and further public disorder.
The Supreme Court of India previously ruled on the detrimental effects of noise pollution, emphasising the need for reasonable quietness in residential areas. In line with these judicial guidelines, the police will enforce specific decibel limits depending on the zone—ranging from 50 dB in silence zones to 75 dB in industrial areas. Additionally, no loudspeakers or public address systems will be allowed between 10 PM and 6 AM, the notice said.
As part of steps to control Sound Pollution during religious processions, the use of sound systems will be permitted but it will be restricted to these sound decibel limits :
The notice also said that while some sound systems may still be used, they must comply with the newly established sound limits. Organisers will be required to obtain police clearance before hiring any sound equipment, ensuring compliance with the law and promoting public safety.
Violations of the instructions regarding DJ Systems and Firecrackers will lead to penal action under the following provisions of Hyderabad City Police Act:
G.O.Ms. No. 172, dtd. 12.,l0.2010 of the Environment, Forest, Science & Technology Deportment, Govt. of A.P. regarding implementation of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 under the Environment Protection Act 1986.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
