Residents of the area added that quality of life is also determined by the sound and environment one lives in
The Nariman Point Churchgate Citizens Association (NPCCA) has written a letter to the commissioner of police and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), asking them to review relaxation of silence zones in the area.
The letter, signed by the president of the Association Swarn Kohli, reads: "As we approach the festive season, it has come to our notice that silence zones will not be observed and use of loudspeakers permitted during the Ganpati festival, can continue for all other festivals, during Navratri / Christmas etc. Sir, as you are aware, this is a hazard to health and well being of senior citizens and the sick, and a disturbance to work and students (sic)."
Residents of the area added that quality of life is also determined by the sound and environment one lives in. "At any given time the sound is 60, 80 or even 100 decibels. During the festival period, it goes out of control. What we are asking for is only enforcement of permissible decibel levels," said Atul Kumar, vice president of the association.
He added, "Celebration does not have to be correlated with the noise produced. It can be silent and peaceful. Diwali is an outstanding example of a festival that is becoming increasingly environment-friendly. It has gotten quieter and prettier every year. There are crackers with less noise and there is also a significant reduction in smoke pollution. Crackers also tend to harm birds and animals. Only permissible decibel levels should be followed. There is a reason why decibel levels are set."
Despite repeated messages, the commissioner of police and BMC's municipal commissioner did not respond to queries from DNA.
AT A GLANCE
- Recently, the government informed the High Court that it is relaxing noise pollution norms for festivals
- Residents have written to the BMC and the Commissioner of Police for enforcement of permissible decibel levels
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