Pune Police to Enforce Noise Regulations During Ganesh Chaturthi Processions

Pune, 16th August 2024: Pune Police will closely monitor noise levels during Ganesh Chaturthi processions, with a focus on controlling excessive loudspeaker use. Legal action will be taken against those who violate noise regulations. Pune City Commissioner of Police, Amitesh Kumar, announced that a meeting will be held between police officials and the organizations participating in the processions to discuss the matter.

Every year, during the Visarjan (immersion) processions, loudspeakers, Dhol Tasha groups, drums, and other instruments are used extensively, leading to numerous complaints from citizens. Although Ganesh Mandals are making efforts to reduce noise levels, non-compliance by sound system operators from outside the city remains a challenge. At a recent meeting on 13th August, representatives of the Ganesh Mandals requested that the police take steps to limit excessive noise.

In response, Pune City CP Amitesh Kumar stated, “People are suffering due to the widespread use of sound walls. We will soon convene a meeting with sound professionals to address this issue.”

Amitesh Kumar held meetings with Ganesh Mandals over two consecutive days to prepare for Ganesh Chaturthi. On 12th August, a meeting with Public Ganesh Mandals was held at the Pune City Police Commissionerate, followed by a meeting with representatives of the Manache Ganpati Mandals on 13th August. After these meetings, Amitesh Kumar informed journalists, “Laser lights that affected people’s eyes were used extensively in previous Visarjan processions, causing discomfort to many. It has been decided to ban the use of laser lights in this year’s Visarjan procession.” He also warned that action would be taken against anyone using these lights.

Additionally, discussions will be held with the Dhol Tasha Pathak Federation regarding the number of teams and musicians participating in the Visarjan processions. Meanwhile, representatives of the Ganesh Mandals have provided guidance on addressing traffic and parking issues during the processions, with planning underway to resolve these challenges. CP Amitesh Kumar also mentioned that the police have made arrangements to prevent incidents of theft.