Shillong, September 11: The East Khasi Hills district administration has imposed restrictions on the use of loudspeakers, microphones, amplifiers and other electronic sound systems by roadside singers and street performers in public market areas following complaints and assessments showing noise levels above permissible limits.
In an order issued on September 9, District Magistrate Abhilash Baranwal said several roadside singers and street music performers in commercial market areas were using loudspeakers, amplifiers, Bluetooth speakers and other sound-producing instruments at levels exceeding prescribed noise limits.
The order, issued under Rules 5, 7 and 8 of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, noted that the use of loudspeakers and amplifiers in public places requires prior written permission from the designated authority. The administration said noise assessments of street performers in commercial market areas had recorded exceedances ranging from 10.1 dB(A) Leq to 12.1 dB(A) Leq above the prescribed limits, warranting enforcement action under the rules.
Accordingly, the District Magistrate has prohibited the unmonitored use of microphones and multi-stage amplification systems, including high-output amplifiers, active Bluetooth speakers and sound boxes, in open public market areas without permission. Regular street performers have also been directed to use acoustic, unplugged and non-electronic musical instruments instead of amplified systems.
The order further prohibits unmonitored performances along narrow pedestrian stretches, including G.S. Road and narrow market corridors, where sound can reverberate from building facades and increase noise levels. The administration has directed the authorities to identify suitable non-sensitive and acoustically friendly locations for street performances, away from congested commercial corridors and narrow, echo-prone alleyways. Performances may also be shifted to designated cultural zones wherever such spaces are available.
The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has been directed to enforce the order, monitor noise levels in commercial market areas and other corridors, and initiate action against violators under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The order warned that violations or non-compliance would be viewed seriously and could also invite action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The restrictions have come into force with immediate effect across East Khasi Hills district and will remain in place until further orders.
