Ghaziabad, a bustling city near Delhi, is about to get a lot quieter, especially during weddings and other celebrations. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has directed that loud DJs and other music equipment can no longer be played in open areas of banquet halls. This decision comes after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) intervened due to noise pollution concerns.
NGT Steps In
The directive was issued following a report presented by UPPCB to the NGT, led by Justice Prakash Srivastava and Special Members A. Senthil Vel and Afroz Ahmad. The NGT took action based on a complaint from a 12th-grade student, Soumya Singh, who highlighted the issue of noise pollution affecting her exam preparations.
Report Highlights
The UPPCB’s report pointed out that the police commissioner of Ghaziabad should take appropriate measures to ensure that restrictions on loudspeakers and noise-generating devices are effectively enforced during various events.
Traffic Noise Also a Concern
Interestingly, traffic congestion was also identified as a significant contributor to noise pollution in the report. The inspection of a banquet hall in question revealed that noise levels couldn’t be measured since no event was taking place at that time. However, it was noted that noise levels would spike during events with DJs or loud music equipment.
Strict Measures Ordered
The UPPCB has instructed that DJ and other loud music equipment should not be used in open areas or lawns during any event. Such equipment can only be used inside closed halls. The police have been directed to take strict action to enforce these measures.