The Punjab and Haryana High Court Today (Dec 18) was informed that the noise levels at singer Diljit Dosanjh’s recent concert in Chandigarh exceeded the limits prescribed under Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules. A PIL had been moved before the Court last week raising concerns about traffic management, crowd control and security measures at Dosanjh’s December 14 concert.
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CHANDIGARH: The Punjab and Haryana High Court informed on Wednesday that the noise levels at singer Diljit Dosanjh’s recent concert in Chandigarh exceeded the permissible limits set under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
During a session before a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Anil Kshetarpal, the Chandigarh administration presented its findings while addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The PIL called for better traffic management, crowd control, and security measures for the event.
In its affidavit, the Chandigarh administration stated:
“During the musical event of performer Diljit Dosanjh held on 14.10.2024, the noise levels were monitored at various locations and it was observed that the noise level exceeded the limits prescribed under The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Accordingly, action under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 has been proposed.”
The High Court had earlier allowed Diljit Dosanjh’s concert to proceed on December 14, with strict instructions for compliance with noise regulations. It specified:
“Looking at the preparations made by the official respondents as well as the private respondents, this Court has no hesitation in allowing the event from taking place subject to ambient air quality standards in respect of noise being maintained at the boundary of the place where the event is being held, to a maximum of 75db.”
The Court further mandated penal action against the organizers if noise levels exceeded 75 decibels.
The PIL was filed by Chandigarh-based advocate Ranjeet Singh, who sought to prevent the event from happening without adequate safety and logistical measures in place. He cited recent disruptions caused by singer Karan Aujla’s concert at the same venue, which reportedly resulted in traffic jams and other public inconveniences.
The plea highlighted:
“The authorities and organizers failed to plan adequately for managing traffic, controlling noise levels, and ensuring the smooth functioning of emergency services, thereby violating citizens’ fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution.”
The petitioner expressed concerns that Dosanjh’s concert could result in similar issues:
“Sector 34 is in the heart of the UT Chandigarh, and adjoins Sector 32 where all the medical and health services are located. Emergency health services need to pass through Sector 34. Further, the concerts are continuously going to take place at the same venue, and after artist Karan Aujla on 7.12.2024, now artist Diljit Dosanjh is performing at the same venue on 14.12.2024, and further AP Dhillon is going to perform at the same venue on 21.12.2024.”
Acknowledging the submissions and concerns, the Court adjourned the matter to January 2025 for further deliberation.
This ongoing case underscores the balance between cultural events and environmental regulations, ensuring public convenience and safety alongside entertainment.
CASE TITLE:
Ranjeet Singh Vs. Union Territory of Chandigarh and others.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on Diljit Dosanjh
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