Pune: District Collector Approves 15-Day Loudspeaker Exemption for Festivals in 2025
Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi has issued an official order allowing the use of loudspeakers and sound amplification systems beyond usual limits for designated festivals and special events in 2025. The directive, issued under the Central Government’s Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Amendment Rules, 2017, grants exemptions for a total of 15 days, permitting sound systems to operate from 6 am till midnight.
The move comes in response to growing demands from cultural and religious groups seeking flexibility in noise control regulations for traditional celebrations. However, the decision has evoked mixed reactions from citizens. While festival organisers and community groups have welcomed the relaxation, environmental activists and residents in sensitive areas have expressed concerns over potential disturbances caused by prolonged loudspeaker use.
The order mandates strict compliance with noise pollution rules, ensuring that sound levels remain within prescribed limits for different zoning areas. Notably, the exemption does not apply to silence zones, such as hospitals, educational institutions, and courts. Local authorities, including the police and administrative bodies, will be responsible for enforcing noise regulations during these festivals.
To ensure adherence, monitoring teams will be deployed to check decibel levels, and public complaints regarding excessive noise can be reported to the local administration.
List of Festivals With Sound Relaxation
- Shiv Jayanti
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti
- Maharashtra Day
- Ganapati Utsav
- Eid-e-Milad
- Anant Chaturdashi
- Navratri Utsav
- Christmas
- Year-End Celebrations
Additionally, permission will be granted for two more days for other significant programmes.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate and maintain a balance between cultural expressions and noise control laws to ensure harmony within the community.
