Calls for stricter controls on loud music
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo has voiced her support for the ongoing protest in Anjuna, where residents have rallied against noise pollution from local clubs and restaurants.
Lobo emphasised that while Goa is a tourist state that thrives on music, it should not be at the cost of disturbing the peace of local communities.
Speaking on the matter, Lobo stressed the importance of holding parties indoors within soundproof enclosures.
She also highlighted the need for restaurants and clubs to provide adequate parking facilities to prevent vehicles from blocking the entrances of local residents.
"People have taken the right step," Lobo said, referring to the four-day protest aimed at pressuring authorities to address the noise issue.
"The music, which is supposed to stop at 10 pm, starts at that time and continues throughout the night until the next morning. Residents of Vagator face the worst of it, with their doors and windows vibrating from the blasting music," she added.
Lobo reiterated her stance against loud music during a visit to the Anjuna Police Station on August 14, where she requested that the police ensure music is stopped after 10 pm.
In response to her concerns, Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira convened a meeting with the Superintendent of Police, Deputy Collector, Joint Mamlatdar, and officials from the Goa State Pollution Control Board to address the situation.
The Siolim MLA informed that a committee, led by the Deputy Collector of Bardez, has been established to conduct surprise inspections along the coastal belt to monitor compliance.
Additionally, Lobo noted that the High Court is currently hearing a case on loud music, and a directive has been issued for all restaurants to install online sound monitoring systems.
"I’m not sure how effective the online monitoring system will be, but it should work," Lobo remarked.
"No one is against anyone's business. Goa is a tourist state and tourism is the backbone of our economy. Tourists must continue to come to Goa, but that doesn’t mean they can take us for granted," she said.
Lobo said that while locals have no issue with the presence of bars and restaurants, the problem lies in the all-night blasting of music, which must come to an end.
