UT Administration informs HC of noise limit breach at Diljit Dosanjh's Concert

The Chandigarh administration informed the Punjab and Haryana High Court about noise violations during singer Diljit Dosanjh’s concert on December 14. Noise levels exceeded permissible limits, prompting recommendations for action against the organizers under environmental regulations.

Noise limits exceeded

During the resumed hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Ranjeet Singh, a Sector 23 resident, the administration submitted its findings. Singh had previously sought a ban on concerts at the Sector 34 venue unless noise concerns were addressed. The high court had stipulated that noise levels should not exceed 75 decibels, warning of penalties for non-compliance.

An affidavit by the Chandigarh administration revealed that monitoring teams recorded noise levels ranging from 76.1 dBA to 93.1 dBA at the venue’s boundaries. Consequently, action against the event organizers was recommended under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

The report was acknowledged by the bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Anil Kshetarpal, who deferred further hearings to January, citing no immediate urgency. Meanwhile, the incident drew public criticism, especially concerning traffic chaos reported around Sector 34 during the concert. Strict measures for the general public contrasted sharply with special privileges extended to VVIPs, including judges and officers, who bypassed barricades and accessed exclusive lounges.

The upcoming concert of singer AP Dhillon, initially planned for the same venue, has been relocated to Sector 25 rally ground. This decision, shared during the court session, aims to prevent similar disruptions and noise concerns.

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Streamlined event approvals

In response to rising concerns over concert management, the Chandigarh administration has instituted an Event Permission Committee (EPC). This eight-member panel, chaired by the UT District Magistrate, includes representatives from various departments such as police, traffic, municipal corporation, and fire services. The SDM of the event’s location serves as the committee’s member secretary.

The EPC is tasked with expediting approvals for live events while ensuring compliance with all regulations. It will also draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for event permissions to streamline processes and uphold safety and noise standards in Chandigarh.