MPCB to monitor noise levels to track violators

Mumbai: Bursting crackers up to 125db (decibels) is allowed during Diwali celebrations. Officials from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) said that individual noise levels will be calculated by their scientific officers, who will submit findings to the controller of explosives and the local police station. 

This will help initiate action against those violating rules. There have been repeated strictures on fireworks during Diwali - from courts, MPCB, and law-enforcement agencies. 

This year, civic authorities as well as MPCB will keep a close and silent watch on those flouting norms. 

PRO Sanjay Bhuskute told The Asian Age, “We have 45 noise monitoring stations across the city, which will be observing people crossing the 125 db limit during the festive season, reporting them to the concerned police station.”

“We have already told police officials to take all necessary measures against those crossing permissible limits and ensure that things are taken care of as it also causes air pollution. If proper measures are not taken to tackle the issue, action will be taken against those responsible,” Bhuskute said.

With noise being recognised as an ambient air pollutant, bursting crackers is bound to disturb air quality. 

The local police and BMC will be closely monitoring the situation, especially in places where more firecrackers are lit.