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Bombay HC Flags Ganeshotsav Noise, Firecracker Pollution; Questions DJ Permissions
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Moneycontrol•22-09-2026, 11:08
Bombay HC Flags Ganeshotsav Noise, Firecracker Pollution; Questions DJ Permissions
- •The Bombay High Court initiated a suo motu PIL over noise pollution during Ganeshotsav, citing loud music beyond permissible limits and hours.
- •The court expressed concern that existing rules are inadequately implemented, causing inconvenience to citizens, and stated that festivals must respect citizens' rights.
- •Justices Girish S Kulkarni and Neela K Gokhale questioned permissions for DJ sound systems during processions, especially when loud music is otherwise restricted to 10 pm.
- •The bench noted breaches of prescribed timelines and noise limits, worsened by simultaneous loud music and firecrackers, posing safety risks on public roads.
- •The HC prima facie suggested banning firecrackers causing noise and air pollution to reduce harmful effects and nurture a healthy environment, linking it to Mumbai's air pollution struggles.
Key Questions Answered
The Bombay High Court initiated a suo motu PIL due to widespread noise pollution during Ganeshotsav, noting that loud music was being played beyond permissible decibel limits and hours, which caused serious inconvenience to citizens and breached regulations.
The bench questioned the logic behind allowing loud music during processions until midnight when general permissions for loud music are strictly restricted to 10 pm.
The court made a strong prima facie observation that it was high time firecrackers causing noise and severe air pollution are banned to nurture a healthy environment and prevent accidents on public roads.
