Shopian, Jan 01 (KNO): In a decisive move to curb rising noise pollution and safeguard public peace and health, the District Magistrate (DM) of Shopian, Shishir Gupta has imposed a complete ban on the use of loudspeakers, public address systems, microphones, and other sound-amplifying devices by shopkeepers, vendors, hawkers, and vehicles across the district.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, comes in response to numerous complaints and direct observations pointing towards excessive and avoidable noise pollution, particularly in Shopian town market and other busy marketplaces.
According to the order accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the district administration has taken serious note of the “cacophony” created by hawkers and shopkeepers who routinely use loudspeakers and amplifiers to attract customers, causing inconvenience to residents, shoppers, elderly people, patients, and visitors.
“Unabated noise emitted in markets and residential areas has been disturbing public tranquility, affecting health, safety, and overall quality of life,” the order reads.
Another major source of disturbance identified by the administration is the use of vehicles—including vans, auto-rickshaws, and handcarts—fitted with loudspeakers or sound systems for promotional activities and announcements. These vehicles, moving through both residential and commercial areas, significantly amplify noise levels beyond permissible limits.
The administration has also flagged noise arising from unrestricted use of public address systems, excessive vehicular honking, generator sets, construction activities, and social or religious gatherings as constituting a public nuisance under the law.
The DM has cited Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the right to a wholesome environment and protection from hazardous noise pollution. The order also refers to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which lay down ambient noise standards.
“Noise pollution at such levels is not merely an inconvenience but a violation of citizens’ fundamental rights,” the order states.
Effective immediately, the order prohibits use of loudspeakers, microphones, amplifiers, or sound equipment by shopkeepers, vendors, or hawkers for advertising or sales in shops and markets; all such devices must be removed or disconnected immediately.
Use of vehicles fitted with loudspeakers or sound systems for announcements or advertisements, unless specifically permitted under rules have also been banned.
To ensure compliance, the DM has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Shopian, to strictly enforce the order. Police are authorized to seize any sound equipment used in violation—whether in shops, markets, or vehicles.
Tehsildars and Sub-Divisional Magistrates are instructed to promptly act on complaints and initiate legal proceedings against violators. Municipal authorities are also tasked with publicizing the order and ensuring ground-level enforcement.
The ban will be in effect for two months from January 1, 2026, unless extended or revoked earlier. The administration has warned of strict action against violators under the law.
Shopian is the first district in Jammu and Kashmir to take such comprehensive action. Many residents, long troubled by unbearable noise levels, have expressed hope that strict enforcement will bring relief and restore calm to public spaces—(KNO)