Maharashtra High Court restricts firecrackers, lasers in festival processions

The Bombay High Court has mandated strict controls on noise and light pollution during festival processions across Maharashtra, enforcing regulations under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

Under the court's directive, organisers and mandals seeking permission to conduct processions must deposit ₹1 lakh as a condition for approval. Individual organisers are required to furnish a deposit of ₹50,000. These financial requirements are designed to ensure compliance with noise and pollution standards.

The restrictions prohibit the use of firecrackers, laser lights and amplified music during festival celebrations and public processions. The High Court's order reflects growing judicial concern over the environmental and health impacts of unregulated noise pollution during major festivals and religious gatherings.

The directive applies across Maharashtra and seeks to balance the cultural significance of festivals with environmental and public health considerations. Authorities are expected to enforce these conditions while processing applications for festival processions and celebrations.