- By Yashashvi Tak
- Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:20 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Delhi Police issued an order requiring written permission for use of loudspeakers or public address systems anywhere in the city on Thursday. The directive, in line with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, sets specific limits on sound levels and permissible hours of use to regulate noise pollution from both public and private sources.
As per the guidelines, no loudspeaker, sound-producing device, musical instrument, or sound amplifier shall be used during night hours, except within enclosed premises such as auditoriums, conference rooms, community halls, and banquet halls, or in the event of a public emergency.
The use of sound equipment in public areas will now require written approval from the concerned authority, including for renting loudspeakers as well.
Police have said that tent and generator suppliers must not provide equipment to customers without written permission from the local police. District Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been instructed to strictly enforce this directive and take legal action against any suppliers who fail to comply.
Noise Level Restrictions as per the New Order:
Industrial Areas:
A maximum noise level of 75 decibels (A) is permitted from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
From 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, the noise limit is reduced to 70 decibels (A).
Residential Areas:
During the daytime (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM), the permissible noise level is 55 decibels (A).
At night (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM), the limit drops to 45 decibels (A).
Silence Zones (such as areas near hospitals, schools, and courts):
The allowed noise level is 50 decibels (A) between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
From 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, the limit is 40 decibels (A).
Public Places Using Loudspeakers or PA Systems:
The noise level at the boundary of the premises must not exceed 10 decibels (A) above the ambient noise standard or a maximum of 75 decibels (A), whichever is lower.
Privately Owned Sound Systems:
The noise generated must not exceed 5 decibels (A) above the prescribed ambient noise level for that area.
Penalties for Noise Regulation Violations:
Improper use of loudspeakers or public address systems
Fine of Rs 10,000
Equipment will be confiscated
Diesel generator sets (based on capacity):
Above 1000 KVA – Fine of Rs 1,00,000
Between 62.5 and 1000 KVA – Fine of Rs 25,000
Up to 62.5 KVA – Fine of Rs 10,000
Noise-producing construction equipment:
Fine of Rs 50,000
Equipment may be sealed or confiscated
The order also imposes penalties for setting off firecrackers outside the designated hours. For instances of excessive noise during weddings or rallies, fines of Rs 10,000 may be issued in residential areas, and Rs 20,000 in designated silence zones. The Delhi Police has announced that these noise control regulations will be strictly enforced across all districts of the capital.
(With Inputs of ANI)