The Hyderabad Police have imposed a ban on the use of DJ sound systems and firecrackers during religious processions in the city. This decision was announced by Hyderabad Commissioner CV Anand through a notification issued on Tuesday.

The move comes in response to concerns raised by various community members about the noise pollution caused by high-decibel sound systems and firecrackers during these events.

Last week, Commissioner Anand met with representatives from religious organizations, political party leaders, and other stakeholders to gather feedback on the proposal to ban DJs and firecrackers during processions.

According to the notification, DJ sound systems, mixers, amplifiers, and other high-volume sound equipment are now prohibited during religious processions. 

The notification highlighted the alarming increase in the use of such equipment in recent processions, which are attended by thousands of people.

"The use of DJ systems poses health risks and generates significant noise pollution. Prolonged exposure to high decibel levels can severely impact human health. Additionally, it has been observed that young people often become overly excited and indisciplined when DJ systems are played at high volumes. This can result in confusion and improper communication among organizers and government departments such as Police, Revenue, and GHMC, hindering proper monitoring of the procession and potentially leading to law and order issues," the notification stated.

The notice also pointed to the growing number of complaints about firecrackers causing noise pollution in residential areas, leading to health problems for the elderly and disrupting children's education. 

The use of firecrackers during processions with large crowds is particularly dangerous. During a religious procession on September 19, a generator powering a DJ system caught fire near Charminar, likely due to sparks from firecrackers. Fortunately, the fire was quickly contained, preventing any damage. However, the incident led to rumours and communal tension, which could have escalated into a serious situation.

While the use of sound systems will still be permitted, they must comply with the decibel limits set by the Government Order issued in 2010 by the Environment, Forest, Science & Technology Department of the Andhra Pradesh government. Organizers must also obtain police clearance for both the equipment and the dealers or companies supplying it.

Violations of the DJ and firecracker ban will result in penal action under various laws, including the Hyderabad City Police Act, BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita), Environmental Protection Act of 1986, Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules of 2000, and the Hyderabad City Loudspeakers (Regulation of Use and Licensing) Rules of 1963.

IANS