In a decisive move, the Jharkhand High Court has mandated action from district magistrates across all 24 districts in the state to enforce its directives on curbing sound pollution. These orders, initially issued in September 2019, aimed to regulate the use of loudspeakers, public address systems, and firecrackers in public spaces. Additionally, the court instructed the state government to ensure strict adherence to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
The court’s decision stemmed from a public interest litigation filed by Sudhir Kumar Pappu, who highlighted the lack of action against noise pollution violators. Pappu emphasized that the high noise levels were adversely affecting the health and well-being of citizens, particularly the vulnerable demographic comprising the elderly, children, and patients.
Despite previous court orders, the High Court noted a glaring absence of compliance reports from district magistrates. It also highlighted the absence of an effective mechanism to monitor noise levels and penalize offenders. The court firmly asserted that it was the responsibility of district magistrates to ensure the enforcement of noise pollution regulations within their jurisdictions.
In response to this, the court issued a stringent directive, mandating district magistrates to submit compliance reports within four weeks. Failure to do so would require their personal appearance before the court. Simultaneously, the state government was instructed to provide an affidavit detailing the measures taken to implement the court’s orders. The case is scheduled for its next hearing on November 15.
This proactive stance by the Jharkhand High Court underscores the significance of environmental health and public well-being, sending a clear message that noise pollution will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those who flout the regulations. Stay tuned for further updates as the court’s directives unfold, ushering in a quieter and healthier environment for Jharkhand’s citizens.
