In response to a PIL filed by concerned citizens, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed night patrolling by the local intelligence bureau, beat staff and night duty sub-division officers to curb the menace of noise pollution. A dedicated phone line number 112 has been set up for receiving complaints from citizens. Noise monitoring committees will be set up to carry out surprise checks at beach shacks, restaurants and hotels in coastal villages which are known for organising loud late-night parties. All serious violations of statutes will be reported directly to the District Magistrate who has the power to invoke the provisions of the Noise Pollution (regulation and control ) rules 2000 and the Environment Protection Act to deal with errant parties. The problem is especially acute in commercial establishments dotting the villages of Chapora, Anjuna and Vagator which use amplifiers, loudspeakers and firecrackers. Public awareness campaigns also need to be run alongside to sensitise people on the dangers of high decibel levels which not only affect the hearing but also the heart, especially of the elderly. This year let us commit to low-key Christmas and New Year festivities.
