BBPCB implements anti-noise pollution measures during Durga Puja

KOLKATA: As per a mandatory directive from the West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB), all Durga Puja committees have to provide a written undertaking about adopting anti-sound pollution measures during the Durga Puja festival. According to Rajesh Kumar, WBPCB Member Secretary, police stations have been instructed to double-check with the electricians hired by the puja committees to see if loudspeakers and sound boxes are connected with sound limiters before they are installed close to the puja pandals. 

Kumar added that the committees won’t be able to obtain authorization if they don’t follow the rule. Kalyan Rudra, WBPCB Chairman, said they are worried that loud music during the festival will cause discomfort to the sick, elderly, and children. He added that police personnel, administrative officials and WBPCB staff will be patrolling all the areas of the state to make sure that noise from loudspeakers remains within safe limits.