Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Oct 18: Playing loud music after 10 pm without proper consent will now attract fines up to Rs 1 lakh for business establishments or premises if they violate noise rules more than twice, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) announced. Repeated violations may also lead to sealing of the premises and revocation of consent to operate for three months.

The decision was taken during the GSPCB Board meeting on October 7, where environmental compensation for noise violations was approved, and the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for compliance was finalised. For the first violation, a fine of Rs 20,000 will be imposed, and Rs 40,000 for the second, along with revocation of consent until the fines are cleared.

In cases where multiple sources contribute to excessive noise and the Board cannot attribute it to a single establishment, the premises may be closed with an acoustic enclosure and double-door system to prevent sound from spreading. Music may then be transmitted via headphones, transmitters, or other technologies, requiring separate permission from authorities, including the police.

The Board noted that loudspeakers or public address systems cannot be used without written permission, and are prohibited at night except in closed premises like auditoria, conference rooms, or community halls, or during public emergencies. ‘Night’ is defined as 10 pm to 6 am.

As per law, ambient noise standards are set at 66 dB during daytime and 55 dB at night for commercial areas, 55 dB during daytime and 45 dB at night for residential areas, and 50 dB during daytime and 40 dB at night for silent zones. Board officials may monitor and identify violations independently and issue directions accordingly.