Patna High Court Criticizes Bihar Government Over Rising Noise Pollution

KKN Gurugram Desk | Patna High Court has expressed strong disapproval of the Bihar government’s handling of rising noise pollution in the state. During a hearing on Surendra Prasad’s petition, Justice Rajeev Roy highlighted that people are constantly suffering from different forms of pollution, and immediate action is necessary.

The court issued a strict statement regarding the increasing noise levels in Patna and across Bihar, emphasizing the urgent need to address the issue. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for February 14, 2025.

High Court Appoints Senior Advocate as Amicus Curiae

To assist in the case, the Patna High Court appointed senior advocate Ajay as Amicus Curiae (friend of the court). During the hearing, he informed the court that orchestra, DJ systems, and cultural event organizers are disregarding the impact of noise pollution on the public.

He further explained that despite the existence of strict noise pollution laws, many people continue to violate sound regulations without facing consequences.

Loudspeaker and DJ Usage Violates Noise Pollution Laws

Senior Advocate Ajay informed the court that India’s noise pollution laws clearly define restrictions on excessive sound levels.

• Permission for Loudspeaker Use: According to existing regulations, obtaining permission is mandatory before using loudspeakers in public areas.
• Seizure of Loudspeakers: Authorities have the right to seize loudspeakers if they are being used beyond the permissible limits.
• DJ Systems Replacing Loudspeakers: The court noted that traditional loudspeakers have been replaced by DJ sound systems, which generate extremely high decibel levels, leading to serious environmental hazards.

The court emphasized that strict action should be taken against those who violate the noise pollution limits set by the law.

Noise Pollution in Bihar: A Growing Concern

Noise pollution has become a major problem in Bihar, particularly in urban areas like Patna. Several factors contribute to the worsening situation, including:

1. Excessive Use of DJ and Loudspeakers

• Religious events, political rallies, and social gatherings often involve high-volume DJ systems that exceed safe sound levels.
• People ignore permission rules and play music at ear-damaging decibel levels, creating public disturbances.

2. Traffic and Vehicle Horns

• Heavy traffic congestion in Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya leads to excessive honking, further increasing noise levels.
• Many commercial vehicles and autos install modified loud horns, which significantly contribute to sound pollution.

3. Construction Activities and Industrial Zones

• Rapid urban development in Bihar has led to a rise in construction noise, affecting both residents and wildlife.
• Factories and industrial areas generate continuous noise, making it difficult for people to live peacefully.

4. Public Gatherings and Political Events

• Political rallies, protests, and celebrations often involve loudspeakers and high-volume music, leading to noise disturbances in residential areas.

Impact of Noise Pollution on Public Health

Excessive noise exposure has serious consequences for human health and well-being. According to medical experts, prolonged exposure to high-decibel sound can cause:

• Hearing Loss: Constant exposure to loud sounds can lead to permanent hearing damage.
• Sleep Disturbances: High noise levels, especially at night, cause insomnia and sleep disorders.
• Increased Stress & Anxiety: Uncontrolled noise pollution can lead to mental health issues, including stress and anxiety disorders.
• Heart Diseases: Studies indicate that prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.

Government’s Responsibility in Controlling Noise Pollution

The Patna High Court has emphasized that controlling noise pollution is the government’s duty. Strict laws and enforcement mechanisms should be in place to ensure compliance.

Key Government Actions Needed

✔ Strict Monitoring of Noise Levels: Authorities must install sound meters to track real-time noise pollution in cities.
✔ Heavy Fines for Violators: Individuals and organizations exceeding permissible noise limits should face strict penalties.
✔ Public Awareness Campaigns: The government should conduct awareness drives to educate people about noise pollution laws and their effects.
✔ Regulation of DJ and Loudspeakers: Special permits should be made mandatory for DJ sound systems at weddings and social events.
✔ Banning Modified Vehicle Horns: Police must take action against vehicles with loud modified horns.

Strict Legal Framework for Noise Pollution Control

India has well-defined noise pollution control laws, but the lack of enforcement has made the situation worse.

Existing Legal Provisions for Noise Control

📌 Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000: Defines permissible noise levels in different zones like residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
📌 Environment Protection Act, 1986: Empowers authorities to take action against those causing excessive noise pollution.
📌 Section 268 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC): Punishes public nuisance due to loud music and excessive noise.

Despite these laws, lack of strict enforcement has allowed noise pollution to rise in Bihar.

Court’s Strong Warning: Action Needed Before It’s Too Late

During the hearing, the Patna High Court made it clear that strict action must be taken to prevent uncontrolled noise pollution. The court’s concerns indicate that:

🔴 Authorities must take immediate steps to reduce sound pollution in cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur.
🔴 Strict monitoring of DJs and loudspeakers must be implemented to ensure compliance with noise limits.
🔴 Citizens must be educated about the harmful effects of noise pollution on health and the environment.

The next court hearing on February 14, 2025, will be crucial in determining what steps the government is taking to control the situation.

The Patna High Court’s strict stance on noise pollution highlights the urgent need for government action. Rising sound levels in Bihar’s cities are affecting public health and quality of life, and authorities must take immediate steps to tackle the issue.

🔹 Strict laws must be enforced to regulate loudspeakers and DJ sound systems.
🔹 Public awareness programs should be launched to educate citizens about noise pollution hazards.
🔹 Government agencies should impose heavy fines on violators to ensure compliance.

With the next court hearing scheduled for February 14, all eyes are on how the Bihar government responds to the crisis. If strong action is not taken soon, the problem of noise pollution will only worsen, causing serious damage to public health and the environment.