In a significant move to combat urban noise pollution, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has issued a stern directive to strictly prohibit loud noise at weddings and social functions after 10:00 PM. The order, delivered on Monday, emphasizes the need to protect the general public—particularly children and the elderly—from the growing “inconvenience” caused by late-night celebrations.
A division bench comprising Justice Rajan Roy and Justice Manjive Shukla passed the order during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Dharampal Yadav. The petition specifically targeted the commercialization of the city’s prominent Janeshwar Mishra Park, but the court’s ruling has triggered a much broader crackdown on noise and the misuse of open spaces across the state.
A State-Wide Audit of Open Spaces
Beyond the immediate noise restrictions, the High Court has ordered a comprehensive survey of the state’s geography. The commissioners of all 18 divisions and all district magistrates have been directed to identify and document every park, playground, and open space within their jurisdictions.
These areas must now be formally included in the government registry maintained under the Uttar Pradesh Parks, Playgrounds, and Open Spaces Preservation and Regulation Act, 1975. The court has demanded a compliance report from the relevant authorities by the next hearing date.
Protecting the Environment and Public Peace
The court took specific cognizance of the disruption caused by commercial and social activities in residential areas and public parks. Citing Section 6 of the 1975 Act, the bench reminded authorities that listed parks and playgrounds cannot be used for any purpose other than their original intent without explicit prior permission from the prescribed authority.
Furthermore, the court took an environmental stand, noting that excessive noise levels in parks are detrimental to local ecosystems. “Such activities affect birds and other animals in parks and are also detrimental to the environment,” the bench observed.
Directives for the LDA and Police
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has been explicitly told to “reconsider” allowing commercial activities in public spaces like Janeshwar Mishra Park. Additionally, the court directed the state police, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation, and the LDA to ensure all functions adhere to permissible noise limits set by the Supreme Court.
The authorities are now tasked with implementing effective measures to curb noise levels, ensuring that the city’s residential zones and green lungs remain peaceful havens for residents and wildlife alike.
