Patna: The Patna High Court has taken a strict stand on the increasing problem of air and noise pollution in Patna. While hearing a contempt case, the court said that pollution in the city has become serious and authorities are not doing enough to control it. The case was heard by Justice Rajiv Roy, who expressed clear dissatisfaction with the way government agencies are handling the issue.
The court criticised the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, saying it has failed to properly control pollution in the city. The board told the court that it had issued notices to marriage halls and asked construction sites to use green nets to reduce dust. However, the court was informed that there was no proper record of letters sent to municipal bodies, which raised questions about how seriously the rules are being followed.
Police action was also closely examined during the hearing. The Rupaspur police station said there were delays in receiving official instructions, while Kadamkuan police admitted that although cases were filed against DJ use, enforcement was still weak. The court questioned the role of Station House Officers (SHOs) and even considered strict action against them. However, after a request from the state’s lawyer, the court gave them one final chance to improve their performance.
Reports were also presented from several police stations in Patna, including Kankarbagh, Pirbahore, Alamganj, Gandhi Maidan, and Buddha Colony. The court said these reports were not satisfactory and made it clear that pollution laws must be enforced properly. It reminded officials that rules under the Loudspeakers Act, 1955, and Noise Pollution Rules are not just written guidelines but must be strictly followed in real life situations.
The court suggested that police should record video of DJ systems and loudspeakers used in wedding processions instead of stopping them immediately, and take action after the event if rules are broken. It also ordered all concerned Station House Officers to appear personally in court on June 19 with proper reports. In addition, the court asked authorities to organise a public awareness event called a “Run for Pollution” to help people understand the seriousness of the issue.
