In an effort to ensure a quieter and more peaceful Ganpati Visarjan, Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal has mandated that Ganpati mandals refrain from using DJs and minimize sound instruments during the immersion processions, which begin today. The directive is part of a strict enforcement of The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
According to these rules, noise levels are capped at 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night in residential areas, 65 decibels during the day and 55 at night in commercial areas, and 75 decibels during the day and 65 at night in industrial zones.
Over the next five days, a total of 13 large Ganpati idols will be immersed, with 614 idols set for immersion on September 17, 450 on September 18, 200 on September 19, and another 200 on September 20.
To ensure adherence to the noise regulations, special police teams equipped with sound level meters have been stationed at police stations. These teams will closely monitor sound levels during the processions, where the use of DJ systems has been explicitly prohibited.
Dr. Singal emphasized that this move is intended to strike a balance between festive celebrations and public tranquility, ensuring that residential and other areas remain peaceful. He also highlighted a recent incident in which the police registered an offense for the use of a DJ during Ganpati installation on September 7, reinforcing the importance of compliance with the noise control rules.
The Commissioner reiterated that while the festivities are important, they must not come at the cost of violating noise regulations and disturbing public peace.