Pune: As opposition to blaring DJs during Ganeshotsav and Dahi Handi gains momentum across the city, residents have come together under the banner of the “High-Sound Speaker Free Pune Action Samiti”, launching what they described as a sustained campaign against excessive festival noise.The initiative has already struck a chord with residents, with more than 350 citizens extending their support within a day of its launch, conveners said on Wednesday.Determined to ensure the issue does not fade after a single protest, the forum has charted out an action plan for the coming weeks. It will hold meetings with police and PMC authorities, raise awareness about the impact of high-decibel sound systems and push for stricter enforcement of noise pollution norms. A memorandum demanding firm action against loudspeakers exceeding permissible sound limits has already been submitted to Pune police.“We do not want this to be a one-time protest. Sustained efforts are needed to make people aware of the harmful effects of excessive noise. That is why we decided to create a dedicated forum and keep this issue alive until concrete steps are taken to reduce noise pollution. The response has been overwhelming, with around 350 people reaching out to support us on the very first day,” convener Vikrant Patil said.Patil said the group would closely monitor sound levels during the upcoming Dahi Handi celebrations and explore legal avenues to curb noise that affects citizens.The movement gained visibility after residents from across Pune gathered at Goodluck Chowk on FC Road on Sunday, voicing frustration over the growing use of high-volume sound systems during festivals.Civic activist Vivek Velankar, who attended the forum’s first meeting, said enforcement agencies must play a decisive role. “Police have a crucial responsibility in controlling noise pollution and ensuring that existing rules and regulations are implemented effectively,” he said.Residents backing the campaign insisted that festivities and noise needed not go hand in hand. Kothrud resident Manoj Joshi, who participated in the recent protest, said celebrations could be vibrant without crossing legal sound limits. “No one is against festivals. They can be celebrated with the same enthusiasm without deafening noise. Speakers can be used, but within prescribed decibel limits. There is a pressing need to create awareness among residents and Ganesh mandals about noise pollution norms,” he said.
