Archive · 22 Sep 2026
Bombay High Court Signals Festival Firecracker Ban, Flags Pollution
The Bombay High Court is worried that Ganeshotsav celebrations are creating too much noise and air pollution.
It said people can hold festivals and processions, but they must not seriously harm other citizens.
The court said loud music may be played beyond allowed times and sound limits.
It also questioned why DJ sound systems were permitted.
Firecrackers were criticized because they make noise, worsen air quality and can cause accidents on public roads.
The court indicated that polluting firecrackers may be banned on public streets during festivals across Maharashtra.
Police and other authorities may have to measure noise levels and enforce the rules.
The court is expected to consider the matter again on September 22.
The Bombay High Court initiated a suo motu PIL over noise and air pollution during Ganeshotsav festivities.
The court said loud music and processions were exceeding permitted decibel levels and hours, including music continuing toward midnight despite 10 pm limits.
The bench questioned permissions for DJ sound systems and said existing pollution-control rules appeared poorly implemented.
It indicated that authorities would be directed to ban polluting firecrackers on public roads and streets during festivals across Maharashtra.
Police and other authorities may be required to measure noise levels and take stringent legal action; the next hearing was scheduled for September 22.
- Who
- A Bombay High Court bench comprising Justices Girish S Kulkarni and Neela K Gokhale, along with police and other authorities whose actions the court is reviewing.
- What
- The court initiated a suo motu PIL over festival noise and air pollution and indicated that polluting firecrackers could be banned on public roads during festivals.
- When
- The matter was heard on Monday and Tuesday during Ganeshotsav; the next hearing was scheduled for September 22.
- Where
- Mumbai and, under the indicated direction, public roads and streets across Maharashtra.
- Why
- The court said loud music and firecrackers were exceeding permitted limits, worsening air pollution, creating toxic air and posing accident risks to pedestrians and vehicles.
- Court action
- The Bombay High Court initiated a suo motu public interest litigation.
- Noise concern
- The court said simultaneous loud music in processions and firecrackers had worsened collective decibel levels.
- Timing concern
- The bench questioned music continuing until midnight when permissions would otherwise run only until 10 pm.
- Firecracker direction
- The court indicated it would direct authorities to ban polluting firecrackers on public roads and streets during festivities.
- Enforcement
- Police and other authorities may be required to measure noise levels and take stringent action under the law.
- Environmental concern
- The bench linked firecrackers to noise pollution, air toxicity and accident dangers on public roads.
- Next hearing
- September 22.
