T’puram: Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed authorities to strictly regulate the use of loudspeakers (kolambi) that cause noise pollution and to remove such devices from places where they are being used in violation of regulations.The order was issued by commission member V Geetha on a complaint alleging that loudspeakers are still being used at some places of worship.In its report submitted to SHRC, Kollam District Police Chief (Rural) said all sub-divisional police officers had been instructed to ensure that loudspeakers operating in such locations are removed at the earliest. Cases registered against various places of worship and institutions in Kollam Rural district for violations of noise pollution regulations are currently under consideration by the courts, the report said.The police also informed the panel that awareness classes are being organised at all police stations in Kollam Rural district with the participation of representatives of places of worship, microphone operators and event management agencies.Authorities are taking phased action, including issuing warning notices, to regulate the use of loudspeakers. The police are also taking appropriate measures to regulate microphone use at places of worship while ensuring communal harmony and respecting religious beliefs.SHRC noted that the high court has issued several judgments concerning noise pollution. Although authorities have been taking steps to curb noise pollution, it was not clear whether these measures had achieved complete effectiveness, the commission observed.
