Patna: Expressing concern over the rising menace of noise pollution in the state capital, the Patna high court on Friday directed all station house officers (SHOs) to strictly enforce provisions under the Loudspeakers Act, 1955, and submit their action taken reports (ATRs) by June 19.The court also instructed the chairperson of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) to organise a marathon or similar public events to raise awareness about the “silent health hazards”, particularly mental health issues, caused by noise pollution in urban areas.A single bench of Justice Rajiv Roy passed the order while hearing a contempt petition filed by Surendra Prasad.The court pulled up two SHOs, present in the courtroom, for their laxity in complying with its earlier orders. When questioned, the SHO of Rupaspur police station admitted he had failed to see the court’s directions sent to him. Similarly, the SHO of Kadamkuan police station drew the court’s ire for not noting the registration number of a vehicle playing loud DJ music that passed by him.The court indicated it would initiate contempt proceedings against the officers. However, govt counsel Prashant Pratap’s plea for a final opportunity granted them temporary relief.Both officers, along with four other SHOs, have been directed to appear before the court again on June 19, when the matter will be taken up next.
