The High Court has asked concerned authorities to take stern measures to stop loud music beyond 10 pm except on designated dates. What has happened in the past is ok, but from today there should be no sound pollution beyond 10 pm, says High Court. The Court castigated authorities for not taking action in the past and said they were not serious which resulted in a breach of rules. The Court directed both District SPs to file an ‘Action Taken Report’ on all outdoor shows held beyond 10 pm. When agencies assured that sound testing equipment would be installed, Justice Sonak stated that they were trying to lock the stable door after the horse has bolted.
Facets of Herald’s coverage of the issue found were mentioned in Court. The High Court then quoting the newspaper reports asked if permissions have been given for 25 outdoor events for playing music post-10 pm. Deputy Collector Bardez said no such permissions have been given by him. The Advocate for the petitioners’ Adv Carlos Alvares Ferreira cited that 15 events were listed between 30 November and 23rd December from 8 pm to 6 am. The Court directed authorities to state if permissions were granted for these 15 events, and also directed the Department of Environment to expedite the process of procuring Sound Level Meters for the State.
