Date:04/02/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/02/04/stories/2007020419120300.htm

Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram

Rampant violation of loudspeaker norms

Most people do not want to confront local elements responsible for organising festivals and political functions, writes G. ANAND

The violation of restrictions placed by the High Court on the use of loud speakers has become a serious public concern with the start of the February-May festival season. Citizens living in the vicinity of places of worship and students preparing for examinations are those most affected by the sound pollution, which is on the increase.

Electronically amplified high decibel sound is one of the many reasons for motor vehicle accidents in the State, according to traffic experts. Loud music is often played round-the-clock at junctions and roadsides during festivals and political meetings. Noise above 70 decibels does adversely affect the reflexes of motorists, particularly those driving two-wheelers. Exploding firecrackers near main roads is another menace road users have to bear during the season.

According to the law, loud speakers should not be engaged between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. However, the rule is observed more in the breach in the city. During festival time, loud speakers are switched on in the early hours of the day and not turned off till late in the night.

The law prohibiting the use of loud speakers, particularly those placed on moving vehicles, near hospitals, courts and Government offices is rarely observed, a residents' association office-bearer pointed out.

The police department rarely takes action on its own against those who violate the law regarding the use of loudspeakers. Only a small section of affected citizens bother to make a police complaint. Most do not want to confront local elements who are responsible for organising festivals and political functions.

Many citizens feel that the sanction for using loudspeakers should be given only sparingly. The use of loud speakers for marketing and advertising should be prohibited.

The police should book those who play music over public address systems without the permission of the copyright holder.

The police should also confiscate electronic equipment used by those who violate norms regarding the use of loudspeakers. Those seeking sanction to use loud speakers should be made to deposit at least Rs.1000 for each speaker.