Patna: People troubled by excessive noise from DJs, loudspeakers and other sources can now report noise pollution through Dial-112, following directions issued by the Patna High Court.
The police administration has linked the Dial-112 emergency response service with the handling of complaints related to excessive noise, with the initiative being taken at the level of the Director General of Police.
The court has also stressed the need to keep the identity of complainants confidential to ensure that people can report noise pollution without fear or hesitation.
The directions were issued by Justice Rajiv Roy while hearing the case of Surendra Prasad versus State of Bihar. The court took on record the information submitted by the state government and disposed of the petition with necessary directions.
Citizens can report loud DJ, loudspeakers on 112
During the hearing, government advocate Prashant Pratap informed the court that citizens can now freely lodge complaints on Dial-112 regarding noise pollution caused by DJs, loudspeakers or other sources producing excessive sound.
According to the state government’s submission, the concerned agencies will take action after receiving such information.
The court observed that excessive noise can cause particular problems for senior citizens, children and pregnant women. It said protecting such vulnerable groups from unnecessary and excessive noise is the responsibility of the police and enforcement agencies.
The court also made it clear that the effectiveness of its directions would depend on their actual and regular implementation on the ground.
Court appreciates linking Dial-112 with noise complaints
The Patna High Court appreciated the police administration’s move to connect Dial-112 with complaints related to noise pollution and urged citizens not to hesitate while reporting excessive noise.
During the proceedings, the court also referred to a report that cited the 1978 song Noise Annoys while highlighting the need for the administration to incorporate the court’s directions into its routine functioning and enforce them strictly.
The court noted that effective enforcement of noise pollution regulations would depend, in part, on accurate information provided by citizens.
After recording the court’s directions and the state government’s assurances, the High Court disposed of the petition.
