Bareilly, 09

Nov (HS): Bareilly police have launched a major campaign across the city to

curb noise pollution. In the last 24 hours, the police have removed illegal

loudspeakers installed at 96 religious and public places. At more than 200

locations, the sound systems' volume was reduced to standard levels and the residents

were warned. This campaign will continue for two more days. SSP Anurag Arya

stated that loudspeakers are installed at a total of 1,583 locations in the

district. Investigations revealed violations at 302 locations. Of these, the

volume was brought within the prescribed limit at 206 locations, while 96

loudspeakers were immediately removed. In the city, noise levels were reduced

at 24 locations in the Bhojipura police station area, while 14 loudspeakers

were removed in the Shahi police station area. He stated that in the initial

phase, action was taken by counseling people, but if further violations occur,

stricter action will be taken by filing FIRs.

Meanwhile, to

curb noise pollution, the Lucknow administration has taken action to remove

loudspeakers from several temples and mosques. This campaign is being carried

out in compliance with directives from the Uttar Pradesh government and the

Allahabad High Court. Lucknow's Joint Police Commissioner, Bablu Kumar, stated

that the action was purely administrative and legal. He clarified that this was

not an action related to any religion or community, but rather a process to

ensure compliance with court orders.

He further

said that police teams have been instructed to maintain communication at

religious places and ensure compliance with the rules so that peace and harmony

is maintained. According to the administration, the High Court had earlier

clarified that loudspeakers or sound amplifying devices can be used in public

places only with permission and at limited sound levels. The crackdown took

place on Friday and Saturday in several areas of Lucknow—Chowk, Thakurganj,

Aliganj, and Indira Nagar. The administration says strict action will continue

against violations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi