More than 3.3k loudspeakers removed from places of worship in Maharashtra: Fadnavis

Mumbai: A total of 3,367 loudspeakers have been removed from places of worship across Maharashtra as part of a concerted effort to curb noise pollution, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the assembly on Friday.

The police has been able to remove 1,608 loudspeakers from places of worship in Mumbai alone, the feat being achieved without religious or communal tension, the CM said.

"Mumbai is now loudspeaker-free at all religious sites," Fadnavis said.

Local police station officials will be held responsible for reinstallation of loudspeakers without nod from authorities, Fadnavis warned.

"Clear instructions will be issued to ensure legal compliance. Flying squads will be formed under each police commissioner to monitor the situation," the CM told the House.

The matter was raised by several MLAs during a calling attention motion.

BJP MLA and former state minister Sudhir Mungantiwar flagged the impact of noise pollution on local communities, while his colleague MLA Devyani Pharande sought a year-round ban on high-volume speakers.

Raising concerns over disturbances in Yeoor forest area, NCP (SP) legislator Jitendra Awhad noted the impact of loud noise on wildlife.

"No musical instruments or loudspeakers will be allowed in forest areas. The forest department and police have been instructed to strictly enforce this," Fadnavis said in response.