Court flags violations, seeks action to reduce pollution levels
The Bombay High Court’s Nagpur bench has taken serious note of the unauthorised use of lawns in the Civil Lines area for marriage and religious functions, observing that none of these venues have obtained the required permissions.
While hearing a batch of public interest litigations (PILs), a division bench comprising Justice Anil Pansare and Justice Nivedita Mehta was informed by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) that no lawns in the area are officially authorised to host such events.
The civic body told the court that notices have already been issued, and the matter is scheduled for hearing before the Municipal Commissioner on April 15, following which appropriate action will be taken.
It was further stated that lawn owners will need to obtain permissions in line with legal provisions and relevant circulars, including those issued by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), if they wish to continue organising events.
Raising concerns over noise and air pollution—particularly from loudspeakers, DJs, and firecrackers—the bench offered a set of broad guidelines. These include requiring applicants to justify the use of loudspeakers, ensuring strict adherence to prescribed decibel limits, and imposing penalties such as cancellation of permissions in case of violations.
The court also suggested that organisers and lawn owners should formally undertake that their events will not contribute to noise or air pollution and avoid bursting firecrackers beyond permissible limits. It further called for coordinated efforts by authorities to raise awareness about the harmful impact of pollution on humans and animals.
HC seeks awareness video on pollution impact
The bench also directed central and state authorities to present a short sample video—animated or otherwise—demonstrating the impact of sound and air pollution, especially from firecrackers, on animals. The court specified that the video should be two to three minutes long and designed in a way that effectively sensitises children, without appearing like a typical advertisement.
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