Pune: The citizens’ protest against loud music during the forthcoming Ganeshotsav is set to continue, with a march planned on Sunday from Balgandharva Chowk to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) building under the banner of “Pune Against Loud Music”.The march, being held for the second consecutive weekend, aims to push for restrictions on the use of high-decibel loudspeakers during the festival.Citizens are expected to join the protest voluntarily. Mukund Kirdat, one of the convenors, said loud music had been causing immense problems for people across all age groups. “DJ-free festivals are being held in several other cities in the state. Similar steps should be taken in Pune,” he said.Last Sunday, citizens had gathered at Goodluck Chowk on FC Road to raise their voice against DJs and violations of noise norms. Shashi Patil, a senior citizen from the Bajirao Road area, said noise levels need to be reduced during festivals.“Everyone should take a step forward and say no to high-decibel sound, which causes hardships. The authorities, mandals and citizens should join hands to keep noise levels within the stipulated limits. Pune’s Ganeshotsav can set an example for others,” Patil said.The Pune police have also warned Ganapati mandals against using DJs, plasma speakers and pressure-mid systems during the festivities.
