Mumbai Ganesh Mandals Must Follow Noise Rules

The Ganesh Mandal Coordination Committee has stated that all Ganesh mandals in Mumbai must strictly follow the prescribed noise limits during the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival.

The committee's president, Naresh Dahibavkar, made this statement at a press interaction at the Mumbai Press Club on Monday. He emphasized that the decision to impose a complete ban on DJs or other loudspeaker systems rests with the government and civic authorities.

Dahibavkar said that the committee is neither in favor of nor against the use of DJs, but it is essential that mandals comply with the law. He cited the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, which state that the permissible noise limit is 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night.

Stricter restrictions are applicable near hospitals, schools, and colleges. Dahibavkar noted that the noise situation in Mumbai has improved significantly over the past five to six years due to repeated awareness campaigns among Ganesh mandals.

The committee has recently met with the municipal commissioner to convey its concerns and suggestions. Dahibavkar also discussed the issue of idol height, stating that the government and BMC should consider the issue from a broader safety perspective instead of imposing restrictions in isolation.

He suggested that authorities should consider idol and mandap height, transportation routes, electrical arrangements, traffic management, road conditions, public safety, and immersion arrangements while framing regulations.

Dahibavkar stressed the need for clear rules on how the height of an idol should be measured, pointing out that some mandals had previously interpreted the restrictions in a way that resulted in additional structures below the idol, effectively increasing the overall height.

The committee has also sought clarity from authorities over the proposed standard operating procedures for serving Mahaprasad during Ganeshotsav. While supporting food-safety measures, the committee expressed concerns that smaller mandals could face financial difficulties if they were required to appoint reputed food contractors.

The committee's representative said that they agree with the action being taken by the department but face difficulties in appointing contractors due to financial constraints.

In conclusion, the Ganesh Mandal Coordination Committee has urged all Ganesh mandals to follow the prescribed noise limits and has left the decision to impose a complete ban on DJs to the government and civic authorities.

The committee has also raised concerns about idol height and Mahaprasad rules, seeking clarity and support from the authorities to ensure a safe and successful Ganeshotsav festival.

The festival is an essential part of Mumbai's cultural heritage, and the committee's efforts aim to balance tradition with safety and regulations.

As the festival approaches, the committee's guidelines and the authorities' regulations will play a crucial role in ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable celebration for all Mumbaikars.

The success of the festival will depend on the cooperation and compliance of all stakeholders, including the mandals, authorities, and the public.

By working together, Mumbai can host a safe and memorable Ganeshotsav festival that showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.