HC Stresses Safety and Noise Norms at the Ganesh Pandals

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has made it clear that organizers of Ganesh pandals in residential areas must strictly adhere to noise and safety regulations. It cautioned that loudspeakers should not be used beyond the permissible limits and directed that pandals must not be erected in a manner that would block fire engines, ambulances, or cause traffic congestion.

Justice N.V. Shravan Kumar was dealing with a petition filed by Prabhavathi, an 80-year-old resident of MES Colony of Secunderabad, who challenged the setting up of a Ganesh pandal infront of her residence without official permission, which was even preventing her from opening her gate.

The court directed authorities to grant permission only after considering objections from affected residents.

Recalling past incidents of electrocution, fire accidents and disturbances with loud noise, the court expressed concern that unsafe electrical connections could result in electrocution or fire accidents.

Meantime, while dealing other contempt petitions and complaints on unauthorised pandals, the court issued guidelines stressing safety norms and noise issues, which are electrical connections should be installed safely to prevent fire hazards and pujas should conclude within one hour. Under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, sound systems were permitted only between 6 pm and 10 pm.

The court issued guidelines for immersion of idols to municipal and police authorities, stating that they must follow the guidelines of the High Court and Supreme Court. Organisers would be responsible for cleaning the premises post-immersion, the court said. A responsible person from each organising committee must be available at the pandal and would be held accountable for adherence to noise, safety, and environmental norms.

The court underlined that while festivals are meant to be celebrated with devotion and joy, they should not cause inconvenience or risk to the public.