CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court has announced a set of new rules to reduce noise pollution during the upcoming Durga Puja festivities in Cuttack, Odisha. The court issued these directives while reviewing a public interest litigation (PIL) that addressed various civic issues within the city.
These measures will directly impact how puja committees organize events. The rules specifically target loud music, firecrackers, and the construction of elaborate electric gates. Authorities designed these steps to ensure the famous festival runs smoothly and safely for everyone.
Furthermore, the court has placed a firm limit on audio equipment. Each puja pandal, or temporary shrine, may use only four sound boxes. This rule aims to prevent sound systems from different pandals from creating a cacophony in residential areas.
In a significant move, the court has also prohibited the erection of electric gates across public roads. These large, illuminated structures have been a traditional part of the decorations but often disrupt traffic and pose safety risks.
The District Magistrate will also hold a meeting with all puja committees next Sunday. During this Dussehra preparation meeting, officials will formally announce the new conditions and answer questions from organizers.
#### Timeline and Safety Checks
The famous Durga Puja in Cuttack will begin on September 28 this year. The grand Durga Puja Bhasani Shobha Yatra procession is scheduled for October 3. The new noise pollution restrictions will be in effect for the entire festive period, starting from Ganesh Puja and continuing until the end of the Bali Yatra fair.
Additionally, the Cuttack DCP must now approve all puja mandap permits. Before granting permission, officials will conduct thorough inspections. These checks will focus on fire safety standards, electrical safety protocols, and overall compliance with the High Court's restrictions.
The community anticipates that these measures will help maintain the religious spirit of Durga Puja while ensuring a more peaceful and environmentally friendly celebration for all residents of Cuttack.
These measures will directly impact how puja committees organize events. The rules specifically target loud music, firecrackers, and the construction of elaborate electric gates. Authorities designed these steps to ensure the famous festival runs smoothly and safely for everyone.
Key Restrictions for a Quieter Festival
The High Court's order includes several important changes for this year's celebration. The court has completely banned the use of firecrackers and loud music that cause excessive noise. To enforce this, the court has set a strict noise limit of 65 decibels for all puja-related activities.Furthermore, the court has placed a firm limit on audio equipment. Each puja pandal, or temporary shrine, may use only four sound boxes. This rule aims to prevent sound systems from different pandals from creating a cacophony in residential areas.
In a significant move, the court has also prohibited the erection of electric gates across public roads. These large, illuminated structures have been a traditional part of the decorations but often disrupt traffic and pose safety risks.
Authorities to Monitor Compliance
The Orissa High Court has assigned local officials the task of enforcing these new rules. The Cuttack District Collector and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) will actively monitor noise levels throughout the festival. They will use professional equipment to ensure the 65-decibel limit is not exceeded.The District Magistrate will also hold a meeting with all puja committees next Sunday. During this Dussehra preparation meeting, officials will formally announce the new conditions and answer questions from organizers.
#### Timeline and Safety Checks
The famous Durga Puja in Cuttack will begin on September 28 this year. The grand Durga Puja Bhasani Shobha Yatra procession is scheduled for October 3. The new noise pollution restrictions will be in effect for the entire festive period, starting from Ganesh Puja and continuing until the end of the Bali Yatra fair.
Additionally, the Cuttack DCP must now approve all puja mandap permits. Before granting permission, officials will conduct thorough inspections. These checks will focus on fire safety standards, electrical safety protocols, and overall compliance with the High Court's restrictions.
The community anticipates that these measures will help maintain the religious spirit of Durga Puja while ensuring a more peaceful and environmentally friendly celebration for all residents of Cuttack.

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