Patna: The Patna High Court has taken a strong step to control the growing problem of noise pollution in the city. While hearing a public interest case filed by Surendra Prasad, Justice Rajiv Roy directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Patna, to instruct all station house officers to strictly follow the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. The court said that noise pollution is not a small issue but a serious problem that affects people’s health, sleep and daily life, especially in a busy city like Patna.
According to the rules, loudspeakers are completely banned between 10 pm and 6 am. Any music or sound that causes trouble to others is also not allowed at any time of the day. The court pointed out that in many parts of Patna, tempos and e-rickshaws play loud and sometimes vulgar songs, which makes travel uncomfortable for passengers, especially women. The judges also said that bursting firecrackers at night and using sound systems beyond the allowed decibel limits are illegal and must be stopped immediately.
The government told the court that police have already started taking steps in some areas. Government lawyer Prashant Pratap said that police stations such as Pirbahore, Gopalpur and Kadamkuan are working to control noise in their areas. He also explained that citizens can now complain about noise pollution by calling the 112 emergency number, which works 24 hours a day. As per the report from the DGP’s office, the 112 service has 1,883 vehicles across the state and allows people to report problems without going to the police station or sharing their identity.
However, the court was informed that the problem is still serious in many places. Senior advocate Ajay, who is helping the court in this case, said that areas like Kadamkuan, Pirbahore, Rupaspur, Buddha Colony and Gandhi Maidan still face regular noise disturbances. He requested that the SSP ensure strict action in all police station areas, not just a few. The court agreed and said that all officers must follow the same rules so that citizens can finally get relief from noise.
The court also expressed concern about air pollution in Patna, especially dust from large construction projects in the Danapur area. Senior advocate Shivendra Kishore, representing the Pollution Control Board, said that notices have been sent to those breaking the rules. The court asked the board to submit a detailed report on what is being done to control air pollution in the city. The next hearing in the case will take place next week.
