Thaindian News

Mumbai, Oct 28 (IANS) Mumbai experienced relatively quieter Diwali celebrations this year with increased use of light-based fireworks, according to a noise pollution study by a prominent NGO.

“A majority of Mumbaikars have said the noise pollution levels were comparatively lower this year as compared to last year, though there were violations,” Awaaz Foundation chief Sumaira Ali told IANS here Friday.

However, in some areas like Bandra, Dadar, Sion and some other eastern suburbs, the noise pollution levels were high on Diwali Wednesday, but it reduced considerably the following night.

According to Sumaira, besides these areas, residents from several other parts of the city complained of occasional high noise pollution levels in the range of 80-95 decibels.

The permissible noise levels in Mumbai are: Silence Zones up to 50 decibels before 10 p.m. and 40 decibels after 10 p.m., and Residential Zones up to 55 decibels before 10 p.m. and 45 decibels after 10 p.m., she said.

Despite violations in some areas, Mumbaikars generally agree that Diwali 2011 was much quieter than last year, Sumaira pointed out.

In fact, this year many parents advised children to avoid heavy sound crackers. The Mumbai Police had also intervened by banning the sale of such fire crackers.

“This shows that our sustained campaign against noise pollution is having the desired impact and we hope Diwali next year will be even quieter,” the NGO chief said.