The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has expressed strong displeasure over the commercial exploitation of parks, playgrounds, and other open spaces in Uttar Pradesh. The court has directed the state government and relevant authorities to reconsider the existing policy governing such spaces.
Court's Observations
Hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Dharampal Yadav seeking a ban on commercial activities in parks, including the Janeshwar Mishra Park in Lucknow, a division bench comprising Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla observed that organizing events in these green areas adversely impacts the environment, birds, and nearby residents. The bench emphasized that such spaces must be preserved for their designated purposes under the Uttar Pradesh Parks, Playgrounds and Open Spaces (Preservation and Regulation) Act, 1975.
Survey and Listing of Green Spaces
The court directed all divisional commissioners and district magistrates across Uttar Pradesh to conduct comprehensive surveys of parks, playgrounds, and open spaces within their jurisdictions. These sites must be included in an official list to be prepared under Section 6 of the 1975 Act. Authorities have been ordered to furnish complete details of such sites before the court to ensure proper regulation and protection.
Strict Action Against Noise Pollution
The bench also took a stringent view of noise pollution caused by weddings and other functions. It directed the state government, police, municipal corporations, and development authorities to take action against loud music and noise exceeding permissible limits after 10 pm. The court underscored that noise control is essential for the convenience and well-being of residents, especially children and the elderly.
Policy Reconsideration
The court expressed dissatisfaction with the current policy that allows commercial use of public green spaces. It instructed the state government to reconsider the policy to prevent further degradation of these vital areas. The PIL, which sought a ban on commercial activities in parks, was the catalyst for this broader directive aimed at preserving the ecological and recreational value of open spaces in Uttar Pradesh.
