Pune’s out-of-control DJ culture has become a serious public health hazard, particularly during festivals like Ganeshotsav. Blatantly violating decibel limits, organizers and authorities allow DJs to blast music at dangerously high volumes in public spaces. These high-decibel sound systems, meant for celebrations, are increasingly turning into lethal instruments of destruction.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred last year during Ganapati celebrations near Shivaji Chowk, Hinjawadi Phase-1. A young man lost his life after being exposed to extremely loud DJ music during the festivities. The unregulated decibel levels, which exceeded legal limits, not only caused him severe trauma but also contributed to his untimely death. Despite this tragedy, little has changed, and such dangerous practices continue, highlighting the lack of enforcement and disregard for public safety by both the authorities and event organizers.
The legal framework regulating noise pollution is crystal clear: decibel levels in residential areas should not exceed 55 during the day and 45 at night. Yet during these festivals, sound levels reach 110 decibels or more, causing irreparable damage to both the community and individuals. Residents in the affected areas report not only hearing loss but also psychological distress and cardiac complications due to the incessant noise.
A notable case involved a local lawyer who lost 60% of his hearing following similar DJ-led Ganesh festival celebrations, showing just how damaging this culture has become. Despite a Bombay High Court ruling mandating noise control, authorities remain passive, allowing the toxic combination of high-powered machines and irresponsible organizers to wreak havoc on Pune’s population.
This culture of loud, unregulated DJ music is not just an assault on the senses—it’s a clear public health crisis. And until the authorities take serious, punitive action against violators, such tragic deaths, like the one at Shivaji Chowk, will continue to tarnish the true essence of these festivals. It’s time to end the unchecked use of these “machines” and bring civility back to the celebrations.
