Orissa HC directs Kendrapara collector to curb noise pollution

The Orissa High Court has directed the collector of Kendrapara to dispose of a long-pending representation by a local resident, highlighting flagrant violation of noise control laws in the Pattamundai Block and Municipality.

The case was filed by a local resident, Bibhuti Bhusan Mohapatra, seeking the enforcement of noise pollution control laws and guidelines as laid down by the Supreme Court which restricted use of loudspeakers and high volume producing sound systems, petitioner’s counsel Akhand said.

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Citing this binding precedent, the petitioner urged the state authorities to issue directions to all district magistrates and police officials to strictly comply with the apex court’s guidelines and the provisions of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

He also invoked the Orissa Fire-works and Loud Speakers (Regulation) Act, 1958, and its Rules of 1965, which govern the use of sound-producing devices and firecrackers.

The petitioner submitted that the unregulated use of loudspeakers, DJ systems, and firecrackers—often from 5 am to 11 pm—during various religious and social events, including Pala performances, melody shows, deity immersion processions, operas, and private functions, is causing extreme discomfort to residents.

He stated that these disturbances severely affect vulnerable groups such as students, the sick, and the elderly, including his 90-year-old bedridden mother, violating their fundamental right to a pollution-free environment under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

Despite submitting written grievances to the collector of Kendrapara and the superintendent of police on multiple occasions, the petitioner alleged that no action had been taken to address the growing menace of noise pollution in the Pattamundai area.

The court observed that without going into the merits of the case, the collector is directed to dispose of the petitioner’s representation by passing a reasoned order within one month from the date of the order.