Jorhat Takes Strict Action Against Noise Pollution
In a significant move to combat escalating noise pollution, Jorhat District Magistrate Jay Shivani issued a comprehensive prohibitory order on Thursday under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The order imposes immediate and strict restrictions on all noise-generating activities across the district, marking a decisive step toward creating a quieter environment for residents, particularly students preparing for crucial examinations.
What Prompted the Strict Measures?
The district administration took this strong action after observing repeated violations of Supreme Court guidelines and existing district directives regarding noise pollution. The order specifically highlights the negative impact of excessive noise on students during their critical evening and night study hours when concentration levels need to be at their peak for academic success.
"It has come to our notice that some organizations and individuals have deliberately violated rules related to noise pollution by playing high-volume loudspeakers, amplified music, and bursting firecrackers beyond 10 pm," the official order stated. The administration emphasized that such irresponsible behavior has been creating significant difficulties for young learners across Jorhat district.
Key Restrictions Under the New Order
The prohibitory order establishes three major restrictions that will be strictly enforced throughout Jorhat district:
Complete ban after 10 PM: All activities involving high-volume loudspeakers, amplified music, and firecracker bursting are prohibited after 10 pm without exceptions.
Decibel level limits: The cumulative noise from all sources must not exceed 55 decibels during daytime hours and 45 decibels at night in residential areas.
Sensitive zone protection: Loud speakers operating at high volumes are completely prohibited near hospitals, courts in session, and educational institutions to ensure these critical facilities remain disturbance-free.
Constitutional Rights and Environmental Protection
The order invokes Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing that "the right to a healthy environment under Article 21 enshrined in the Constitution is a fundamental right of all living beings." This constitutional backing gives the restrictions significant legal weight and underscores the administration's commitment to protecting both environmental quality and public health.
District Magistrate Jay Shivani noted that despite previous strict directions to event organizing committees and individuals, violations have continued unabated. These persistent disruptions have been "amounting to hamper/disrupt of the environment as well as human well-being," according to the official documentation.
Legal Framework and Enforcement
The order has been passed ex-parte under Section 163 of BNSS due to the urgent nature of the situation and will remain in force until further official notice. However, the administration has provided a recourse mechanism where aggrieved parties may approach competent authorities for modification or waiver of specific provisions.
Violations of this order will attract penalties under Section 223 of the BNS, making it clear that the administration is serious about enforcement. The Jorhat district administration has unequivocally stated that protecting public health and maintaining a conducive academic environment for students remains their top priority.
This comprehensive action represents one of the strongest measures taken in recent times to address noise pollution concerns in Assam's Jorhat district, balancing individual freedoms with community welfare and educational needs.
