Nagpur High Court Mandates Prior Permission for Loudspeakers and Firecrackers at Event Venues
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court issued a clear directive on Thursday, stating that lawns, clubs, and marriage halls cannot use loudspeakers or firecrackers without obtaining prior permission from the relevant authorities. This ruling came as the court highlighted widespread violations in Nagpur's Civil Lines area and emphasized the urgent need for strict enforcement to combat both sound and air pollution.
Court Takes Note of Widespread Violations
During the hearing of a batch of Public Interest Litigations (PILs), including one filed by Bhupendrakumar Wasnik and related matters, a division bench comprising Justices Anil Pansare and Nivedita Mehta recorded submissions that confirmed numerous venues were operating without the necessary approvals. Additional Government Pleader Shishir Ukey, representing the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), revealed that none of the lawns operating in Civil Lines have permission to offer their premises for marriage or religious ceremonies. He further informed the court that notices have been issued to these operators, and a meeting between them and the municipal commissioner is scheduled for April 15.
Strict Guidelines for Permissions and Enforcement
Taking serious note of these violations, the court underscored the harmful consequences of sound and air pollution, identifying event venues as a significant source. It stressed that permission for the use of loudspeakers or sound systems must be granted only after thorough scrutiny. Applicants are now required to justify why an event cannot be organized without such equipment, and authorities must ensure that the output remains within permissible decibel limits. The bench directed that any breach of these permissions should result in immediate cancellation, reinforcing accountability among organizers.
Furthermore, the court mandated that organizers must undertake not to burst firecrackers beyond permissible limits and ensure that their events do not lead to sound or air pollution. This move aims to curb the environmental impact of large gatherings and festivities.
Broader Recommendations for Pollution Control
Expanding the scope of its directions, the judges called upon both the Central and state governments to regulate the manufacture of firecrackers and ensure compliance with noise standards. They also recommended integrating awareness about the impact of pollution into school curricula and utilizing cinema halls, OTT platforms, and social media to educate the public. The court observed that the effects of sound and air pollution extend beyond humans, affecting birds and animals as well.
In addition, the bench proposed mandatory display boards at cracker shops warning of health and environmental risks. It directed authorities to develop awareness content, including sample videos, for submission before the court. The court also sought updates on the proposed "Pollution Free Nagpur" online portal, which is intended to facilitate the lodging of complaints by citizens.
Court Emphasizes Immediate Action
Describing its suggestions as illustrative, the court allowed authorities to modify them as needed but emphasized that effective steps must be taken immediately to address the issue. The matter has been posted for further hearing on April 23, indicating the court's commitment to ongoing oversight and enforcement of these measures to protect public health and the environment in Nagpur.
