Patnagarh, June 20: A tragic incident allegedly linked to excessive DJ sound has sparked concerns over noise pollution and its impact on public health. A woman from Saharapada area of Patnagarh reportedly died after being exposed to loud DJ music during a wedding procession, triggering protests and demands for a ban on DJs in the region.

According to reports, a wedding celebration was underway in Saharapada on Friday when loud DJ music was being played. The deceased, identified as Lochan Bahuk, was reportedly unwell and had requested the DJ operators not to play music in front of his residence. However, the request was allegedly ignored.

Soon after, Bahuk fell unconscious and was rushed to Patnagarh Medical Centre by family members. As his condition deteriorated, he was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Balangir, where he later succumbed during treatment. Though the exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed, family members and local residents suspect that the high-decibel DJ sound may have aggravated his health condition.

Following the incident, aggrieved family members and residents staged a road blockade on the Patnagarh-Kantabanji main road, demanding a complete ban on DJs and financial assistance for the bereaved family. Police reached the spot and initiated discussions with the protesters to restore normalcy.

Medical experts have also cautioned against the harmful effects of excessive noise. Cardiologists say prolonged exposure to high-volume sound can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to abnormal heart rate, fluctuations in blood pressure and severe stress on the cardiovascular system. In vulnerable individuals, such conditions can potentially become life-threatening.

The incident has once again brought the issue of noise pollution into focus, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of regulations governing the use of high-volume DJ systems during public events and celebrations.