MAPUSA
With more than a dozen coastal clubs gearing up to host late-night Independence Day weekend parties, Anjuna Police have warned that any violation of noise limits will be met with immediate action “ including an abrupt halt to the music.
“Our first point of action is to immediately stop the music in any club that violates noise rules. Booking of a case against the management will follow,” a senior police officer said, requesting anonymity.
The police, armed with noise-level meters, say they are ready to check decibel readings on the spot.
Many clubs and restaurants have installed noise monitoring stations linked directly to the police station.
“As soon as we come to know that someone is breaking the rules, our team will rush there,” the officer added.
However, despite the expected influx of tourists and partygoers, Anjuna Police have not sought additional personnel.
“We will manage with the staff we have right now,” another officer confirmed, adding that there will be no joint enforcement with the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) or local panchayats, even though those bodies may also monitor the nightlife scene.
Past holiday weekends in Vagator and Anjuna have seen narrow roads choke with vehicles, as revellers park haphazardly along the roadside or in front of residential gates, blocking access for locals.
The traffic chaos often continues into the early morning hours, adding to residents’ frustration.
This year, residents remain doubtful that police will be able to deliver on their promises.
“Every season we hear the same assurances, but the music blasts well past midnight and traffic is a nightmare,” said Anjuna resident Jawish Moniz, who has been at the forefront of the fight against loud music.
Another local, Ravindra Harmalkar, expressed concern that the lack of extra manpower will leave the police overstretched.
“How can they control noise, traffic and rowdy crowds all at once? In the past, they couldn’t manage even with fewer parties,” he said.
With no special traffic plan disclosed and no clear strategy to tackle illegal parking or congestion, locals fear this Independence Day weekend could follow the same noisy, chaotic script as previous years “ despite police pledges of swift action.
