SATURDAY, JULY 27, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: In a stern directive targeting bars, clubs and restaurants in the Anjuna and Vagator areas, the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has instructed Goa Police, Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) and the North Goa District Magistrate to carry out immediate and rigorous enforcement operations against them.
The GSCPCR has noted that the establishments have been identified for blatantly violating noise control regulations, thereby disrupting the peace and affecting the well-being of students, particularly during their examination period.
“These operations are called for the crucial months of March, April, and May when students are most in need of a quiet environment to concentrate on their studies,” it said.
The directive has been issued after the Commission received number complaints about the excessive noise levels emanating from entertainment venues, which not only breach legal sound limits but also infringe on the rights of children to a conducive study environment.
The directive has emphasised the critical need for the establishments to adhere strictly to the noise pollution rules laid out under the law.
As part of the enforcement strategy, the Commission has demanded monthly reports from the involved authorities to monitor progress and ensure accountability. These reports are expected to detail the actions taken against non-compliant establishments and the measures put in place to prevent future violations.
“Our tolerance for noise pollution violations is zero. The continuous stream of complaints to the GSCPCR from troubled students and parents, many reaching out for assistance well past midnight, highlights a concerning shortfall in our joint efforts to adhere to these legal mandates. To endanger our children’s health and their future through a blatant disregard for noise regulations in Anjuna and Vagator is deplorable and a direct attack on their rights. The bedrock of our society is the education and well-being of the next generation, and we are committed to fiercely safeguarding this at all costs,” Peter F Borges, Chairperson Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, said.
“This step by the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights underscores the importance of protecting children’s rights and the environment from the adverse effects of noise pollution. It serves as a reminder to all businesses operating in these bustling areas of their legal obligations and the need for responsible conduct to maintain the harmony and well-being of the community,” the GSCPCR said.
