Loudspeakers cause noise pollution

BY SUDHA DEV,Bardaha (Saptari), Apr. 23: The loudspeakers that are played during the religious and wedding functions have caused noise pollution at Rajbiraj Municipality in Saptari district. Locals say that the health of the general public is beginning to suffer due to rising noise levels. 

The Municipality witnessed  various religious programmes, including Bhagwat Purana and Ashtayam.

Although the settlement is located some distance from Dihbar Than, locals have complained that they didn't have a sound sleep for the entire 15-day period. 

While no major incidents have been reported due to the continuous noise, residents say it has affected their health. Durgi Devi Ram, a local, said that women and senior citizens have been experiencing an increase in heart beat and difficulty in breathing.

She said, “When the sound box stops playing song and music, then only the people go to the besd. But there is no sign that it noise will recede."

Local resident Ramesh Yadav said that loudspeakers and sound boxes have become a major attraction at the wedding ceremonies in Madhesh, forcing residents to endure noise pollution almost everywhere.

Pramod Yadav, a local health worker, said that the trend of playing loud music through large sound systems during weddings, cultural programmes, Bhagwat Mahapuran, Ramayana recitations, Ashtayam, and other events is directly affecting the health of children, senior citizens, and people with chronic illnesses.

He said that the acceptable sound level for the general public ranges between 45 and 60 decibels (dB). Exposure to noise above 85 dB for four continuous hours can increase mental stress, raise heart rate, cause physical discomfort, and pose serious risks, especially for people with high blood pressure.

Tubraj Pokharel, Chief District Officer of Saptari, said that although stakeholders and political parties in the district have agreed to limit such activities, the decisions have not been effectively implemented.

He added that the growing trend of using large sound systems and DJs at religious events, pujas, weddings, and social functions while simultaneously complaining about others’ noise highlights a lack of personal responsibility. He stressed the need to raise social awareness against noise pollution.