Hyderabad, India — In a decisive move to curb noise pollution and enhance public safety, the Hyderabad police have officially banned the use of DJ music systems during the upcoming upcomingand Dasara celebrations, scheduled from October 3 to October 12. This decision comes on the heels of several public complaints regarding excessive noise levels and health risks associated with loud music events, as well as recent incidents that raised concerns about safety during large gatherings.
The ban was discussed during a recent police meeting, where sound system providers were instructed not to supply equipment for traditional ‘dandiya gatherings’ during the festivities. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kotla Venkat Reddy cited the Telangana High Court’s recent ruling, which prohibits loud music from 10 PM to 6 AM, as a further basis for this decision. The police had initially planned to implement the ban during the recently concluded Ganesh festival but expedited their actions following a generator fire during the Milad-un-Nabi festival.
Public safety is at the forefront of this initiative, with complaints from residents highlighting the disruptive nature of DJ music and its impact on community health. “Several complaints have been received regarding the noise levels, and the health risks posed to individuals near the sound systems cannot be ignored,” ACP Reddy stated. Moreover, the police have emphasized that the loud music hampers effective communication among officers on duty. The reliance on walkie-talkies, known as man-packs or transceivers, for internal coordination has proven challenging in the presence of loud sound systems.
An officer explained, “Due to the loud music, officers are unable to hear the instructions passed on the walkie-talkies, leading to confusion and mismanagement during large processions.” The implications of this ban extend beyond just noise control; it aims to ensure that police personnel can maintain order efficiently, especially during significant events where crowd control is essential. Officers often rely on whistles to convey urgent instructions to their teams, but the overpowering music has made this increasingly difficult.
In a meeting with political party leaders, public representatives, and various stakeholders held on Thursday, the majority expressed their support for the police's decision. This consensus reflects a community commitment to balancing festive celebrations with public safety and health considerations. As the city prepares for the vibrant and colorful celebrations of Navaratri and Dasara, residents will have to adjust to a quieter atmosphere, allowing for a more harmonious environment for both revelers and the community at large.
