- The Goa State Pollution Control Board directed to link its noise monitoring system with the Anjuna police station for real-time data monitoring within a week. Both the Anjuna PI and the board must submit a compliance report.
- The High Court slammed the State for failing to enforce Noise Pollution Rules, particularly after 10 pm, despite several prior directives.
- The HC observed that the authorities have sufficient power to take stringent action, including sealing establishments found in violation.
- In case local police or the GSPCB finds that restaurants/establishments are seen violating the noise level permissions beyond the permissible sound limit and beyond the permissible time limit, the court said it is open for them to take appropriate action in accordance with the law including seizure of the equipment.
- There are several orders made by this court as well as the statutory authorities regarding the breach of Noise Pollution Rules, particularly beyond 10 pm. However, there is a problem with implementation. The GSPCB officials, the police officials and the concerned Sub Divisional Magistrate must conduct a surprise inspection to detect violations
- If violations are noticed, immediate action must be taken to stop the violations and the activities going on in the establishments
- If repeatedly, the terms and conditions are breached, then such establishments cannot rely upon the permissions granted to them. Operating in breach of terms and conditions virtually amounts to operating without valid permissions
- Authorities have sufficient power to stop the activities at the establishment including by way of its sealing for the violation. Similarly, where activities proceed unabated without permission, the Authorities must act strictly.
- If the GSPCB officials find that the Deputy Collector or the Police Authorities are not cooperating, they should say so in their report to the Court
- Government to place the application on the violating restaurants/establishments for consideration before the GSPCB and upon inquiry, initiate appropriate action against such violations.
HC observations on sound law violations
High Court of Bombay at Goa's observations and directions on writ petition and contempt petition since 2020:
