Hyderabad Implements as of Strict Noise Control Measures for the Religious Processions
Telangana news : In a decisive move aimed at the curbing noise pollution and ensuring public safety of Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand announced new regulations restricting to the use of loud sound systems and firecrackers throughout religious processions in the city. This notification are issued on a recent Tuesday it has a response to increasing concerns over sound pollution and public disturbances associated with these events which they often draw large crowds.
New Regulations on Sound Equipment
The new regulations prohibit the use of DJ sound systems, sound mixers, amplifiers, and other high-decibel equipment during religious processions. Although the use of sound systems is not entirely banned, it will be strictly regulated to comply with the noise decibel limits set forth in the Government Order No. 172, dated October 12, 2010, from the Environment, Forest, Science, and Technology Department.
To further ensure compliance, the police will require organizers to obtain clearance before hiring sound equipment. This regulation extends to the dealers and companies supplying the sound systems, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all parties involved in the organization of these religious events.
Telangana news : Time Restrictions on Sound Use
According to the guideline provided by the Supreme Court the sound equipment usage is strictly limited to daytime hours as defined between 6a.m. and 10p.m. No loudspeakers are public address systems, or DJ systems will be permitted during nighttime hours, which are set from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. This regulation aims to minimize the impact of noise on local residents, especially in areas designated as “silence zones.” These zones encompass a minimum radius of 100 meters around hospitals, educational institutions, and courts, where excessive noise could lead to significant disruptions.
Ban on the Firecrackers
In addition to the sound systems are the use of firecrackers is also prohibited throughout of all religious processions in Hyderabad. This decision was made in light of safety concerns associated with the use of fireworks in densely populated areas which can lead to accidents and injuries are particularly given the large crowds that they participate in these events.
Legal Consequences of an Non-Compliance
Violators of these new regulations will be face legal repercussions under as of several laws including that the Hyderabad City Police Act on the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Environment Protection Act of 1986. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) put Rules of 2000 and the Hyderabad City Loudspeakers (Regulation of Use and Licensing) Rules of 1963. This comprehensive legal framework underscores the seriousness with which the Hyderabad Police are approaching to the issue of noise pollution and public safety.
Immediate Implementation
Commissioner Anand emphasized that the new regulations would take effect immediately and apply to all religious processions throughout the city. Station House Officers (SHOs) and Additional Inspectors of Law and Order in Hyderabad have been instructed to serve this notification to all organizers and suppliers involved in these events. They are also empowered to take necessary legal actions against any individuals or organizations that fail to comply with the regulations.
Background and Rationale
Hyderabad hosts a variety of religious festivals that often involve large processions, sometimes numbering in the thousands. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the use of DJ sound systems and firecrackers during these events. This trend has led to heightened competition among organizers to hire more extravagant and louder sound systems, contributing to significant noise pollution in the city.
Commissioner Anand highlighted on that prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds are can have detrimental effects on human health as particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Moreover, the excitement generated by loud music often leads to unruly behavior among young participants, complicating coordination between the procession organizers and law enforcement agencies.
Public Complaints
The police have received a surge of complaints regarding noise pollution through various channels, including the emergency service number Dial 100. Many residents have reported adverse health effects, including stress and sleep disturbances, linked to the excessive noise generated during religious processions. Such disturbances have also been noted to interfere with children’s education, prompting further action from the authorities.
Safety Incidents Prompting Action
Recent incidents have underscored the dangers are associated with the unregulated use of firecrackers and loud music. For instance, throughout of a religious procession on September 19, 2024, a generator intended for a DJ system caught fire, likely ignited by sparks from nearby fireworks. Although the fire was contained before causing any damage, the incident raised alarms about public safety and the potential for communal tensions.
Following this incident, Commissioner Anand convened a meeting with various stakeholders, including representatives from different religious organizations, political parties, and government departments. The meeting aimed to discuss the growing concerns regarding the misuse of sound systems and firecrackers during processions.
Consensus Among Stakeholders
During the meeting, a power-point presentation was shared, illustrating the risks associated with loud music and fireworks, not only to public safety but also to health. Video clips displaying the extreme sound levels generated by DJ systems were shown, alongside testimonials from community elders who voiced concerns about the negative cultural impact of the current DJ music trend during religious events.
The feedback from an participants, including as political leaders and heads of religious organizations was overwhelmingly supportive of the measures are proposed by the police. There was a collective agreement on the need to be prevent the use of DJ systems and fireworks throughout religious processions to ensure the safety and well-being of all the participants and residents.
Conclusion
Hyderabad new regulations are on sound systems and firecrackers during religious processions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of public health, safety and community as well-being. By implementing these measures in the city aims to foster a more harmonious environment during its vibrant religious celebrations prioritizing the needs and concerns of its residents while still allowing for the rich cultural expressions inherent in these important events.
The collaboration between law enforcement, community leaders and the public will be essential in ensuring the success of these regulations and maintaining the festive spirit of religious processions without compromising the quality of life for Hyderabad citizens. As these changes are take effect on it will be crucial for all the parties involved to remain vigilant and committed to be upholding the new standards for sound and safety.