Diwali Celebrations in Maharashtra Generate Dangerous Noise Levels Across All Cities
According to the recently published Economic Survey of Maharashtra 2025–26, noise pollution levels recorded during Diwali celebrations across major cities in the state exceeded prescribed limits at every single monitoring location. The survey, which cites comprehensive data from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), reveals that not a single area fell within permissible noise standards during the festive period.
Alarming Noise Readings Across Mumbai and Thane
The data presents a concerning picture of noise pollution in Maharashtra's urban centers. Under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, residential areas should not exceed 55 decibels (dB) during daytime hours and 45 dB at night. However, readings during Diwali celebrations were significantly higher across all monitored locations.
In Mumbai, Shivaji Park in Dadar recorded particularly high levels, reaching 81.7 dB during the day and 75.9 dB at night on October 20, 2025. The Chembur area logged 76.6 dB during daytime hours and 73.7 dB at night. Neighboring Thane showed even more extreme readings, with Wagle Estate touching 82.5 dB during the day in 2024, representing one of the highest readings in the entire dataset. Gokhale Road in Thane recorded noise levels consistently above 70 dB on multiple occasions.
Widespread Noise Pollution Across Maharashtra Cities
The problem extends far beyond Mumbai and Thane, affecting urban centers throughout Maharashtra. Pune's Laxmi Road registered 83.2 dB during the day and 75.5 dB at night in 2024, while Nashik's Central Bus Stand reached 79.6 dB during daytime hours and 78.2 dB at night in 2025.
Several other cities also showed dangerously elevated noise levels during Diwali celebrations:
- Nagpur recorded readings well above permissible limits
- Amravati showed significant noise pollution
- Akola registered excessive noise levels
- Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) also exceeded standards
Every monitored location in these cities recorded noise readings substantially above the prescribed limits, indicating a statewide pattern of excessive noise pollution during festive celebrations.
Health Implications of Persistent Noise Pollution
The Economic Survey highlights the serious health consequences associated with such elevated noise levels. The document notes that noise pollution from various sources including traffic, construction activities, industrial operations, and festive celebrations can lead to significant health impacts.
Potential health effects identified in the survey include:
- Hearing loss and auditory damage
- Increased anxiety and stress levels
- Other mental health issues
- Sleep disturbances and related health problems
- Cardiovascular effects from chronic exposure
The survey emphasizes that regular exposure to noise levels exceeding prescribed limits, particularly during festivals like Diwali, creates cumulative health risks for urban populations across Maharashtra.
The comprehensive data from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board provides clear evidence that current noise control measures during festive seasons are insufficient to protect public health. The findings suggest an urgent need for more effective noise management strategies during celebrations to ensure compliance with established safety standards.
