BMC seeks relaxation of silent zone rules on Sundays

BMC will be clamouring for a relaxation on silent zone rules, especially around educational institutions on Sundays, as reported by DNA

Following a recent court ruling, more than 1,113 areas within 100 metres of educational institutions and hospitals have been earmarked as silent zones.

Any form of noise pollution, including holding public rallies or marriage functions, bursting crackers, and honking excessively is banned in these areas. The ruling affects political parties as rallies cannot be held on public recreation grounds and playgrounds.

Political bigwigs have been asking the municipal corporation and state authorities to relax silent zone norms on open spaces around educational institutions. "I have received instructions from his seniors about relaxing the rules near schools and colleges on Sundays," said an deputy municipal commissioner.

During a meeting on Thursday to discuss silent zone rules, BMC asked the state home department to relax the rules. But the demand was shot down. According to the home department, silent zone rules were to be followed round the clock.

"The law does not provide for any relaxation on a Sunday. How can the state give such permission?" Anna Dani, principal secretary, state home department, asked.