PANAJI
The Environment Department has eased restrictions on loud music for 15 festive days this year, allowing the use of loudspeakers and public address systems from 10 pm to midnight.
Environment Director Sachin Desai has issued an order stating that permission will be given on a case-by-case basis.
On the last day of the Carnival, 4th March 2025, loudspeakers can be used from 10 pm to midnight.
The relaxation also applies to Easter eve on 19th April, the second day of Ganesh Chaturthi for idol immersion on 28th August, and the fifth day of the festival on 31st August. Anant Chaturdashi (6th September) is also included in the order.
Loud music will also be allowed until midnight on the last day of Navratri (1st October) and Diwali eve (19th October). The relaxation covers the festive period from 28th December to 31st December, including Christmas eve (24th December) and Christmas (25th December). The government has also permitted loud music on two days of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) “ 21st and 22nd November.
“Permission will be granted on a case-by-case basis in response to a specific application by the village panchayat, municipal corporation, municipal council, or an individual in Goa,” the Environment Department order stated.
It clarified that, “The provisions of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, must be strictly followed.”
