Patna: The Patna High Court on Friday expressed strong displeasure over the rising levels of air and noise pollution in the city, pulling up authorities for failing to enforce existing regulations.
During the hearing, a single-judge bench headed by Justice Rajiv Roy observed that the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) has completely failed to control pollution in the city.
Appearing for the Board, Senior Advocate Shivendra Kishore submitted an action-taken report, stating that notices had been issued to marriage halls and that construction sites were directed to install green nets.
However, Amicus Curiae Ajay Kumar questioned the claims, noting the absence of concrete records of communications sent to municipal bodies.
The Court also scrutinised the functioning of the police.
While Rupaspur Police Station cited delayed information, Kadamkuan Police Station admitted that although an FIR was lodged against a DJ operator, the vehicle involved was not registered.
Expressing dissatisfaction, the Court questioned why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against the concerned police officials.
On the request of the state’s counsel, Prashant Pratap, the Court granted a final opportunity for compliance.
Reports submitted by police stations in Kankarbagh, Pirbahore, Alamganj, Rupaspur, Gandhi Maidan, and Buddha Colony were found unsatisfactory, and the Court passed stern strictures against the respective Station House Officers (SHOs).
It emphasised that the Loudspeaker Act, 1955, and Noise Pollution Rules must be implemented in practice and not remain merely on paper.
Issuing strict directives, the Court ordered that DJs and loudspeakers used during wedding processions (baraats) and other events must be videographed without interrupting the procession, and that legal action be taken immediately afterward in the event of violations.
All six SHOs have been directed to appear personally before the Court on June 19 with compliance reports.
Additionally, the Court directed authorities to organise a “Run for Pollution” awareness campaign and sought explanations regarding violations of noise norms in Rajiv Nagar and Chappra Sadar.
It reiterated that under the Loudspeaker Act, the use of loudspeakers without permission is prohibited between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, and police are empowered to take action against violators.
(IANS)
