Pune: City MP Murlidhar Mohol of BJP on Friday said citizens will have to follow all sound restrictions as prescribed by law and court during the forthcoming Ganesh festival.Mohol’s statement is important against the backdrop of growing opposition to use of DJs and sound enhancing instruments, like pressure-mid or plasma, during the festival and processions on day one and days of immersion. However, he said police should not oppose playing of dhol tasha that are considered traditional musical instruments.He also said if sound restrictions were followed during Ganeshotsav, similar steps would be strictly taken for all events and festivals celebrated through the year.The MP, who was earlier the city mayor and also headed a Ganesh mandal in Kothrud, said public sentiments should be considered while celebrating Ganeshotsav — especially because it is a festival of the people. “There should be a complete ban on plasma and pressure-mid as well as use of lasers. Decibel levels should be within rules and regulations and prescribed limits. The festival should be celebrated without causing hardships to anyone,” he said.Pune residents along with various civic forums have for long expressed serious concerns about loud music being played during Ganeshotsav. They have stressed how noise pollution causes problems to people. During a recent meeting, Pune Municipal Corporation officials raised problems pertaining to sound pollution. However, mandal representatives demanded that DJ speakers be allowed despite people’s opposition.Mohol said, “Pune’s Ganeshotsav has a legacy of over 130 years. Efforts should be taken to increase people’s participation. The festival should be enjoyed within given limits.”He said, “No one should take a stand that will irritate people and lead to discomfort. Use of plasma, pressure-mid and laser should be banned completely.”Mohol said BJP corporators were in favour of following sound regulations and would take into account sentiments of the people. “BJP corporators never said permission should be granted for use of DJs. My Ganesh mandal desists from using speakers.”
