The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has taken a strong, self-initiated stance against the city's severe noise pollution, labeling it a persistent and neglected danger to public health. On Monday, the bench, comprising Justices Anil Pansare and Raj Wakode, directed its Registry to register a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to investigate systemic failures in enforcing noise control laws.
Court Identifies Rampant Violations Across City
The court's action stems from a detailed order that pinpointed widespread breaches. The judges highlighted the misuse of loudspeakers, noise from crackers, chaotic traffic, and constant nighttime disturbances, particularly in the Civil Lines area and other localities. They noted that despite clear laws like the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, violations continue unchecked.
The order specifically named numerous venues where events are routinely held with sound levels exceeding permissible limits, often continuing past the 10 pm deadline. These sites include:
- CP Club and Gondwana Club
- WCL ground and Srushti Lawn
- Ladies Club and Officers Club
- Rani Kothi and Vasantrao Deshpande Hall
- Jawahar Vasati Gruha
- Several temples and dargahs
Health Impacts and Unheeded Directives
The bench expressed deep concern over the health consequences, citing reports that place Nagpur among the six most noise-polluted cities in Maharashtra. It detailed the physiological and psychological harm caused by prolonged exposure to high decibels. Sound levels between 80–110 dB can cause hearing damage, while those above 140 dB can rupture eardrums. The court also pointed to behavioural issues like aggression, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and chemical stress responses linked to such noisy environments.
Recalling the Supreme Court's 2005 directives on crackers, loudspeakers, vehicular noise, and public awareness—which remain largely unimplemented—the judges were scathing in their criticism of the state government's efforts. They stated that the State's July 21, 2025 order would remain "an eyewash" without clear accountability and consequences for implementation failures.
Traffic Hazards and Lack of Progress
Beyond noise, the court flagged the problem of unregulated parking around event venues, which creates traffic hazards in residential zones. It also reiterated its earlier suggestion that loudspeakers should not be installed beyond a height of 15 feet without prior approval, noting that no progress had been made on this front.
The upcoming suo motu PIL will place the entire issue before an appropriate bench for thorough scrutiny. The court has ordered that the relevant newspaper article and the July 21, 2025 government order be annexed to the petition, setting the stage for a comprehensive judicial review of Nagpur's noise pollution crisis.
