Cops to take action to control high volume systems

The police had banned playing of loud music and use of high volume sound systems in the city and are registering cases against violators. The irony is that the cops are not equipped with sound readers to exactly point out the decibel levels and nail the violators. “We go to a function and record the goings-on using a tab which also displays the time.We register an e-petty case mostly invoking sections dealing with public nuisance and ask them to appear before the court,” said an inspector.The city police commissioner periodically issues notifications banning loud music and high volume sound systems.

The police says that loud noise has not only made things difficult for the public but for the department also as it neutralises police communication systems. In many sensitive areas noise levels have touched 20 decibels above normal due to traffic, loud speakers and crackers, he said.

“Providing sound meters will help us get a clear picture of the violation. The meter records the sound level and when attached through bluetooth to the system or laptop generates a slip. It can be clinching evidence in court,” another police inspector said. 

According to restriction orders issued by the Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Rachakonda police commissioner, there should be no loud noise by any means after 10 pm. The police issued these orders based on the advice of the TS PCB.

A year ago, the Telangana State Pollution Control Board, along with some non-governmental organisations had organised a pollution awareness programme for the city cops. A senior police official said that the department was in the process of procuring the sound meters and providing them to the police stations.

Those violating the order will be charged under 67(c), 188 of IPC and under section 76 of the Hyderabad City Police Act.