Delhi Banquet Halls Flout Noise Regulations, Face Penalties
As per media reports, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) issued a show-cause notice to two banquet halls in Karol Bagh and levied an environmental damage compensation of Rs 70,000 for causing noise pollution in the vicinity.
During a 5 Jan, 2024 inspection in the Ajmal Khan area, DPCC found two banquet halls conducting events, with noise levels surpassing both daytime and night-time standards, despite not using a DJ system. The DPCC submitted a report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 15 Feb,2024 disclosing fines of Rs 60,000 and Rs 10,000 imposed on the banquet halls and a show-cause notice issued for corrective actions.
In the commercial area, where the units are situated, the Noise Rules of 2000 dictate daytime noise limits of 65 dB(A) and 55 dB(A) at night. The inspection revealed that one banquet hall recorded noise levels of 75 dB(A) pre-10 pm and 68.9 dB(A) post-10 pm, surpassing the prescribed limits, the reports stated.
The second banquet hall exhibited average decibel levels of 76.4 dB(A) until 10 pm and 74.3 dB(A) thereafter, with noise monitoring conducted one meter away from the venue's boundary wall. The DPCC emphasized that the banquet halls were also facing a residential area, triggering one of the complaints.
In December 2023, Anuj Kansal, a local resident, lodged a complaint with the NGT alleging frequent violations of noise regulations by three banquet halls in the area. In response to the plea, the tribunal instructed the DPCC to conduct an inspection in the vicinity and submit a report on the actions taken.
 (1)_20241119135037_original_image_33.webp)
_20241112135249_original_image_18.webp)
_20241108133740_original_image_10.webp)
_20241101163253_original_image_33.webp)