Representatives from various localities of Pune have joined forces to sensitise government officials on the menace of noise pollution — from an increase in the number of pubs in residential areas to construction and traffic.
The campaign, ‘Voice Against Noise’ is being taken out by Team Swachh Kalyani Nagar (TSKN), an active residents’ body in Kalyani Nagar; Koregaon Park Residents Welfare Association (KPRWA); and a volunteer youth group ‘New Kalyani Nagar Residents’.
Dr Kalyani Mandake, a participant, said, “The rule to control noise pollution was put in place in 2000. It primarily focused on festival sound. Since then, a lot has changed. Noise pollution exists throughout 365 days — we need rules to curb everyday pollution. People who make recreational noise may say ‘Meri marzi hai’ (It’s my wish) but to them, I must say that: tranquillity is my right also.”
Dr Subhash Gokhale, a long time resident of Kalyani Nagar, said, “I’ve lived here for 50 years. The area used to be calm and quiet. Today, it is the worst area in the city.”
The residents posed questions regarding the procedure and implementation of noise- control laws; or the lack thereof, to officials present.