Pune News: NGT Orders MPCB and Pune Collector to Report on Noise Pollution Measures Ahead of Ganesh Festival
MPCB To Monitor Noise Levels At 200 Pune Sites During Ganesh Festival As Per NGT Order
In anticipation of the Ganesh festival starting on September 7, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Pune district collector to submit a detailed report within one week regarding actions taken to address noise pollution. The NGT issued this directive on August 21 following an application filed by Pune-based audiologist Kalyani Mandke.
The tribunal has also instructed that the Pune police commissioner be included in the case. Mandke’s application calls for strict adherence to noise control measures, including the implementation of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) norms, restricting Ganesh Mandals to one pair of loudspeakers, and enforcing the Noise Rules, 2000.
Mandke has requested the formation of a joint committee to establish a protocol for managing noise pollution and addressing complaints related to the festival. Additionally, she has asked that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) revoke licenses for pandals violating noise regulations and that the MPCB release noise monitoring data from the past three years.
The Western Zonal NGT Bench, consisting of Justice Dinesh Kumar Singh and expert member Vijay Kulkarni, noted that similar petitions and orders have been issued in the past. The upcoming hearing is set for August 28. With significant complaints already reported, including 96 cases in 2023 alone, the tribunal’s actions highlight the growing concerns over noise pollution during the festival.
