Narayan Peth records the loudest noise pollution during Dahi Handi at 110 dB

Although grand, this year’s Dahi Handi celebrations in Pune were equally loud. Narayan Peth recorded a noise level of 110 decibels, the highest recorded between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Thursday, according to measurements made by the environment department of the College of Engineering, Pune (COEP) Technical University. Live performances, loudspeakers, and disc jockeys all added to the city’s noise pollution.

Under the direction of the department head Mahesh Shindikar, Jaywant Nandode and Indrajit Deshmukh from COEP recorded noise levels in various locations. Ten locations throughout the city’s center were used to collect the readings.

According to the data, Narayan Peth recorded the highest noise level, 110 decibels, which is significantly higher than the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) standard limit.

According to CPCB regulations, residential noise levels are limited to 45 decibels at night and 55 decibels during the day. The limit is set at 65 during the day and 55 at night in commercial areas. It can be up to 50 (during the day) and 40 (at night) for quiet zones.

The monitoring of noise levels used to be restricted to the Ganesh festival and Diwali because of the increased use of loudspeakers and firecrackers during those times. However, the increased use of loudspeakers and sound systems has led to higher noise levels at the Dahi Handi festival in recent years.

The COEP Technical University’s environment department head, Mahesh Shindikar, stated, “This is the first time we have recorded noise pollution during a Dahi Handi celebration. At every location, the noise level has been recorded as being higher than what is allowed. Exposure to such loud noises for an extended period of time is unhealthy for humans.

Pune’s joint police commissioner, Sandeep Karnik, declared: “The police administration has instituted vigilance in the city. We will investigate the information and complaints we have received and follow the law.