Pune: The Swargate Police have initiated legal action against the organizers of the Anna Bhau Sathe birth anniversary celebrations after the DJ sound system used during the event exceeded permissible noise levels, reaching an alarming 108.3 decibels.
The 2024 celebration, led by event president Sadashiv Dhaware, saw the Swargate Police filing charges against Dhaware, Rahul Khude, and the DJ operator for violating noise pollution regulations.
Despite prior warnings and meetings where police advised the event organizers to maintain sound levels within legal limits, the procession continued with excessively loud music.
Police Officer Sagar Kale filed a complaint at the Swargate Police Station regarding this matter.
The police had previously held meetings advising the groups to limit the sound levels and keep the noise under control during the celebrations. Despite these warnings, loud music was played using the DJ sound system during the procession led by Sadashiv Dhaware.
The organizers refused to lower the volume even after the police requested them to do so. Around 6:30 PM, the police measured the noise intensity using a noise level meter, and it registered at a staggering 108.3 decibels.
As the noise pollution exceeded permissible limits, legal action has been taken against the event's president and others involved. The investigation is being led by Police Sub-Inspector Poonam Patil.
Pune city also witnessed massive traffic jams on this occasion, especially in the Swargate, Saras Baug and Tilak Road areas. Around one kilometer long queues of vehicles, including cars and two-wheelers, were seen on Shivaji road, Tilak road, Sinhagad road and Satara road.