Pune Ganesh Immersion: Noise Monitoring by Police At 120 Points, Dhol-Tasha Troupes Under Watch

Pune, 24th September 2026: Noise pollution checks during this year’s Ganesh immersion processions will extend beyond DJs and loudspeakers, with Pune police set to monitor the decibel levels of dhol-tasha troupes as well. Action, including registration of cases, will be taken against troupes exceeding the prescribed noise limits.

Police commissioner Amitesh Kumar said sound levels would be continuously monitored at 120 locations along the immersion procession route.

The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of noise pollution during religious processions. The Bombay High Court has also taken suo motu cognisance of noise pollution during religious processions and stressed the need to measure sound levels and take action against violations.

Police have permitted Ganesh mandals to use a maximum of four top and four base speakers. If additional speakers are found, the entire sound system of the mandal will be seized, Kumar said.

Restrictions on the use of plasma and mid-pressure speakers will also continue. Police will also enforce the ban on the use of toll instruments by dhol-tasha troupes.

While there is no restriction on the number of dhols, tashes or members in a troupe, the overall sound generated by the group must remain within the prescribed decibel limit. The responsibility for ensuring compliance will lie with the respective troupe, with sound levels monitored at various points along the procession route.

Police said violations would invite legal action rather than merely warnings.