Pune: Most corporators of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) have said speakers should be allowed at low decibel levels during the Ganesh festival, even as activists demand a total ban on DJ systems.Activists have launched an online petition to raise awareness about the problems caused by high-decibel sound systems and sought a complete ban. A small group of politicians are also in support of the activists and urging authorities to make the festival free of noise pollution.On Monday, a citizen raised concerns over use of loudspeakers highlighting the issue during a PMC meeting, but was forcefully evicted from the hall.Meanwhile, the online petition saw over 4,000 citizens sign the document. It said that over the last few years, enthusiasm and grandeur of the Ganesh festival have grown significantly. However, use of DJ speakers and loud music had become a major problem. Resultantly, countless people who value peace and serenity suffer immensely. The sound is usually so loud that it rattles windows. Young children are terrified of the deafening sound and senior citizens suffer severe health complications.The petition further said, “We appeal to the govt and local administration to issue strict directives prohibiting Ganapati mandals from playing DJs and similar amplified high-decibel music. Such a measure would have a profound impact on curbing noise pollution. Standard noise limits, as globally recognised, must be adhered to strictly during the festival.”Ravindra Sinha, who signed the petition, said, “Sustainable planning must be implemented at the local level to control noise pollution during festivals. Ganeshotsav must be celebrated with vibrancy, enthusiasm and joy, but without compromising the health and peace of mind of others.”BJP spokesperson Sandip Khardekar said, “Those from different political parties and administration taking a populist stance should be mindful of the adverse impact loud sounds have on the elderly, young children and patients. The Ganesh festival must be celebrated with grandeur, but malpractices should be avoided.”Khardekar said the ban must be applied with equal justice across all religious festivals and birth anniversary processions of personalities and the commissioner’s office should stand firm on the decision.
