Ahmedabad: In an effort to maintain public order, peace, and safeguard the well-being of its citizens, the City Police Commissioner of Ahmedabad, Prem Veer Singh (IPS), has issued a comprehensive notification addressing the prevention of noise pollution within the city. The notification complies with the directions provided by the Supreme Court and the notification issued by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Environment Department, we must strictly adhere to the Noise Pollution Rules-2000.

The following noise standards have been set for different areas in Ahmedabad:

1. 1. Between 6 am and 10 pm:
   • ~ Industrial areas: Maximum of 75 decibels
   • ~ Commercial areas: Maximum of 65 decibels
   • ~ Residential areas: Maximum of 55 decibels
   • ~ Quiet areas: Maximum of 50 decibels
2. 2. Between 10 pm and 6 am:
   • ~ Industrial areas: Maximum of 70 decibels
   • ~ Commercial areas: Maximum of 55 decibels
   • ~ Residential areas: Maximum of 45 decibels
   • ~ Quiet areas: Maximum of 40 decibels

Noise pollution often escalates during festive occasions such as Diwali due to the usage of firecrackers, loudspeakers, drums, and public address systems. Moreover, industrial activities within residential areas, incessant vehicular traffic, horn honking, and construction equipment contribute to the noise pollution problem. Therefore, to combat this issue, it is strictly prohibited to play any instruments, including horns, that may cause noise pollution between the hours of 10 pm and 6 am.

Commissioner Prem Veer Singh draws attention to his authority as declared by the Government of Gujarat Home Department in Notification No: GG/422/CRC/1082/1080/M, dated November 8, 1982. Under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, any acts in contravention of this order may be subject to legal repercussions.

The notification further stipulates that individuals renting or using microphone systems for public purposes, except those authorized by the Ahmedabad City Government, are strictly prohibited from employing such systems on public roads or open spaces, including privately owned open areas during processions, political, social, or religious gatherings. Additionally, microphone systems are not permitted within a 100-meter radius of hospitals, educational institutions, courts, and places of worship, which are considered quiet zones.

Commissioner Prem Veer Singh emphasizes the need to refrain from using microphone systems to propagate chants or messages that incite provocation or disturbance. Pedestrians are urged to follow traffic rules, walk on the left side of the road, and refrain from blocking the Nachgan-Garba road, ensuring smooth traffic flow.

Violation of the provisions and conditions stated for the usage of sound systems in public places is strictly prohibited and may lead to legal consequences. However, the notification also outlines specific conditions for the relaxation of restrictions on playing microphone systems, urging individuals to adhere to these guidelines.

The order will be in effect from 6:00 am on May 20, 2023, until 12:00 am on July 18, 2023. Those found contravening this order will be liable to punishment as per Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.

The City Police Commissioner has granted authorization to any police officer of the rank of Unarmed Assistant Sub-Inspector and above serving in the Ahmedabad Commissionerate to file a complaint in the event of a breach of this notification.

The residents of Ahmedabad are urged to cooperate with the authorities, respecting these guidelines to foster a peaceful and noise-free environment within the city. DeshGujarat