Mumbai's Ganpati Visarjan 2024 sets new noise pollution record; 115 dB reported on final day

The final day of Ganpati immersion in Mumbai on September 17 set new records for noise pollution, surpassing last year's peak levels. According to the Awaaz Foundation, an anti-noise NGO, sound levels reached a staggering 115 decibels (dB) at Opera House after midnight, primarily due to firecrackers and political speeches. Bandra West also contributed significantly, reaching 112.2 dB due to amplified drums and loudspeakers.

The Awaaz Foundation, an anti-noise NGO, reported that noise levels in 2024 exceeded 2023’s peak of 114.7 dB but remained lower than 2022’s 120.2 dB. Despite the absence of DJs, loudspeakers amplified traditional instruments like drums and banjos, with political pandals extending speeches well past midnight, particularly along the Girgaon Chowpatty route. Noise from these speeches hit 98 dB even after loudspeakers for processions were turned off.

Other areas, including Juhu, Colaba, and Cuff Parade, also saw noise levels above 100 dB. On the contrary, some areas like Dadar reported noise levels staying within permissible limits, showcasing improved compliance from past years.

Interestingly, this year's Eid-e-Milad celebrations were notably quieter than last year's. The highest recorded level during Eid-e-Milad in 2024 was 101 dB, down from last year's peak of 108 dB.

Sumaira Abdulali, a member of the Awaaz Foundation, expressed concern about the violation of noise rules and court orders, particularly regarding the use of loudspeakers past midnight.