PANAJI
The Bombay High Court at Goa is expected to pronounce its verdict today in a contempt plea alleging the State government’s failure to control noise pollution, particularly regarding loud music played beyond the permissible 10 pm deadline in Anjuna.
During the concluding hearing on Thursday, Advocate General Devidas Pangam informed the Bench of Justice M S Karnik and Justice Valmiki Menezes that Goa police have constituted three special teams under the SDPO Mapusa. These teams will patrol Anjuna as this coastal village records the most frequent noise pollution complaints.
“If any violations are detected, these patrol officers, equipped with decibel meters, will take immediate action against establishments violating the permissible noise limits or playing music beyond 10 pm. Surprise inspections will be conducted,” the AG said, adding that the SDPO has already issued necessary orders.
The contact numbers of these patrol teams would be made available to the public for lodging complaints.
This measure, Pangam further said, is in addition to the routine duties of noise pollution complaints handled at the local police station level.
In a related move, the government has implemented an action plan involving the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) whose officials will monitor noise levels and upon detecting violations, will complain to the police.
“The police must act immediately. If no action is taken within half an hour, GSPCB officials are authorized to escalate the matter directly to the SDPO,” the AG added.
The Bench, while stating that it requires further information from the petitioner and amicus curiae, is likely to pronounce its order today.
Earlier, the Court had slammed the State for failing to enforce Noise Pollution Rules, particularly after 10 pm, despite several prior directives. It stated that authorities have sufficient power to take stringent action, including sealing establishments found in violation.
