Pune, 10th September 2024: The Ganeshotsav celebrations in Pune have revealed a troubling trend in noise pollution, with levels exceeding the maximum permissible limits across the city. According to data from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), noise levels at various Ganesh Mandals have surpassed acceptable thresholds.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had previously mandated stricter controls on noise pollution for this year’s Ganeshotsav. In response, the MPCB, in collaboration with a private organization and National Service Scheme (NSS) students, has been monitoring noise levels at 200 Ganesh Mandals across the city. Measurements are taken daily from 6 pm to midnight.

The legal noise limits are set at 75 decibels during the day and 70 decibels at night. However, recent readings indicate noise levels ranging from 75 to 85 decibels, signaling a widespread issue with noise pollution during the festival.

Dr. Kalyani Mandke had earlier filed a petition with the NGT, highlighting the rising noise pollution problem during Ganeshotsav. The petition named the State Government, Collector, MPCB, Pune Municipal Corporation, and Pune Police as respondents, demanding stricter noise control measures. Consequently, the NGT issued directives to reduce noise pollution, including a ban on loudspeakers exceeding 100 watts and limiting dhol-tasha troupes to no more than 30 players.

The MPCB is actively monitoring compliance with these regulations. According to Jagannath Salunke, Regional Officer of the MPCB, “Noise levels are being tracked closely, and Ganesh Mandals exceeding permissible limits are being instructed to lower their noise output. Enforcement of the 30-player limit for dhol-tasha troupes is the responsibility of the police.”

Noise level limits are categorized as follows:
Industrial: 75 dB (day), 70 dB (night)
Commercial: 65 dB (day), 55 dB (night)
Residential: 55 dB (day), 45 dB (night)
Zone of Peace: 50 dB (day), 40 dB (night)