Cuttack, Aug 22: The Orissa High Court has issued a set of stringent directives aimed at controlling noise pollution and ensuring public safety during the upcoming festive season in Cuttack.
While hearing a public interest litigation concerning civic issues, the court ordered a ban on noise-polluting firecrackers, loud music, and electric gates for the duration of the festive period.
In its ruling, the High Court mandated that noise levels must not exceed 65 decibels during religious pujas. To ensure compliance, the court instructed the Cuttack District Magistrate and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) to rigorously monitor noise levels throughout the celebrations. The use of sound systems will be restricted to only four sound boxes per event, significantly reducing the potential for noise pollution.
The court also imposed restrictions on the construction of decorative arches (torans) on roads and has banned the use of electric gates across the city. However, certain electric gates may be permitted under specific conditions, which the District Magistrate is expected to finalize during a meeting with puja committees this Sunday, ahead of the Dussehra festival.
These regulations will apply from Ganesh Puja to the Bali Yatra, covering the entire peak festive period in Cuttack. Before issuing permits for puja pandals, the authorities have been directed to ensure that all fire and electrical safety standards are met, and that the High Court’s noise and safety restrictions are adhered to.
The Cuttack DCP has been assigned the responsibility of overseeing the enforcement of these directives during the festivities.
As Cuttack prepares for its highly anticipated festive season, these measures are set to balance the celebration of tradition with a heightened focus on environmental responsibility and public safety.
