Panaji: In a significant move that could transform Goa’s nightlife and simultaneously address noise pollution concerns, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has directed around 40 nightclubs and restaurants in the state that loud music can only be played indoors.
RTONMS Limitations Exposed
The GSPCB has also concluded that the real-time online noise monitoring system (RTONMS) installed at establishments across the state’s coastal belt cannot identify or isolate a specific establishment as the source of noise pollution, much to the embarrassment of the authorities. This forced the board to withdraw strictures issued against 28 popular nightclubs and restaurants for exceeding decibel levels. This was after at least three companies that provided the RTONMS confirmed that noise monitoring devices cannot reliably pinpoint whether excess noise actually originates from the party venue itself.
Amended Consent Orders
Consequently, the GSPCB moved to amend the consent-to-operate orders of 38 establishments that have installed RTONMS, concluding that these systems “capture sounds from all external sources in the vicinity.” Among the identified establishments are North Goa’s Kiki by the Sea, Soro, Hilltop and Guru Bar in Anjuna, Marabela Beach Resort in Morjim and Dynamo, along with multiple properties in Mandrem.
New Conditions for Music
While lifting earlier strictures, the GSPCB’s amended permissions specify that “amplified music will now be permitted only within fully enclosed premises” fitted with proper acoustic enclosures and double-door entry and exit systems, vetted by the directorate of fire and emergency services and electricity department. No loudspeaker, PA system, musical instrument or sound amplifier may be used in the open between 10pm and 6am, except where the state government permits limited use until midnight.
Future Inquiry
The board has not closed the matter entirely. “The board may approve to conduct a detailed inquiry into the reason as to why exceedances recorded at RTONMS were being attributed to individual establishments that have installed the stations,” said a note put up for discussion by the GSPCB.
