Taking a serious view of the increasing noise pollution in the state capital Patna, the Patna High Court has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Patna, to issue clear instructions to all station house officers in the district to ensure strict control over noise pollution.
The order was passed by a single bench of Justice Rajeev Roy during the hearing of a public interest litigation filed by Surendra Prasad. The court observed that the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 must be strictly enforced under all circumstances.
The High Court clarified that the rules impose a complete ban on the use of loudspeakers and high-volume sound systems between 10 pm and 6 am. Despite this, excessive noise continues to be generated during weddings, religious events, idol immersions, and processions, in clear violation of the law.
The court also noted that playing loud and objectionable songs in tempos and e-rickshaws, bursting firecrackers late at night, and noise levels exceeding the prescribed decibel limits are causing serious inconvenience to the general public, particularly women, senior citizens, and children.
Government advocate Prashant Pratap informed the court that citizens can now use the 112 dial service to lodge complaints related to noise pollution. Citing a report from the Director General of Police’s office, he stated that the 112 service is operational round the clock across Bihar with 1,883 police vehicles.
Appreciating the 112 dial system, the court said that citizens can register complaints without visiting a police station and even without disclosing their identity.
Court-appointed amicus curiae, senior advocate Ajay, submitted that while action has been taken in some police station areas, effective control over noise pollution is still required in several localities, including Kadamkuan, Pirbahore, Rupsapur, Buddha Colony, and Gandhi Maidan. He emphasized the need for issuing strict directions to all police stations.
During the hearing, the High Court also expressed concern over air pollution. Senior advocate Shivendra Kishore, appearing for the Pollution Control Board, raised the issue of dust pollution caused by construction activities in the Danapur area, stating that notices have been issued to violators.
The High Court directed the Pollution Control Board to submit a detailed report on measures taken to control air pollution in Patna, particularly dust pollution. The matter will be heard again next week.
