Mumbai sees decrease in noise levels during Ganpati Visarjan & Eid processions

Ganapati Visarjan/ Pic/Pradeep Dhivar

A Mumbai-based NGO reported that noise levels during the immersion processions of Ganesha idols and Eid-e-Milad celebrations in city were notably lower compared to the previous year, stated a PTI report. According to data provided by the Awaaz Foundation, the highest noise level recorded during these events reached 114.7 decibels (dB) in Matunga on Thursday, followed by 114.1 dB at Girgaon Chowpatty post-midnight.

The report cited that the data indicated that noise levels for both the Ganpati festival and Eid-e-Milad were reduced compared to the previous year, primarily due to the presence of fewer DJs at both events. In the previous year, the highest recorded noise level reached 120.2 dB at Opera House, and political speeches, which extended beyond midnight, were registered at 106.9 dB.

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During the Eid-e-Milad procession, the highest noise level of 108.1 dB was attributed to motorcycle horns. However, this figure was lower than the previous year's 116.3 dB, which was primarily caused by DJ music systems, as reported in the study.

The report also highlighted that there were fewer vehicles equipped with DJ music systems participating in the processions this year. Consequently, the elevated noise levels were mainly attributed to vehicle horns.

This reduction in noise levels during these significant cultural and religious events suggests a positive trend towards greater awareness and adherence to noise pollution regulations in Mumbai.

As per data of the year 2022, the noise levels from processions on Anant Chaturdashi had reached pre-COVID levels in Mumbai and the highest noise level was recorded at 120.2 dB near the Royal Opera House junction past midnight. Meanwhile, the highest noise level during the Eid-e-Milad procession was at 116.3 dB at Mohammed Ali Road near Sir JJ Hospital meanwhile noise levels at Byculla were at 112.5 dB.

According to an earlier report in Midday, Awaaz Foundation, which has been measuring noise levels in the city since 2002, said that during festivities, processions and rallies, the noise levels reach a high. The studies and reports by the foundation revealed that during these occasions, the noise level ranges from 85 to 123.7 dB which is detrimental to health.