Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a clear warning to commercial establishments and event organisers, stating that any breach of noise pollution norms will invite strict action, including hefty fines and even suspension of operational consent.
GSPCB Chairman Levinson Martins said that noise levels in Goa are regulated under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, which prescribe specific decibel limits for residential, commercial and industrial areas, along with clearly defined timings.
“Music has to stop by 10 pm. There will be no relaxation. If noise levels exceed permissible limits, action will be taken as per the law,” Martins said.
He explained that district collectors, deputy collectors and the police department, including Superintendents of Police, are the primary authorities empowered to act against noise violations. However, following directions of the High Court, the GSPCB has also been tasked with monitoring noise pollution and initiating action wherever required.
To strengthen enforcement, the Board has installed online noise monitoring systems at 38 locations across Goa, identified as chronic noise pollution hotspots. These systems generate real-time alerts whenever noise levels cross the prescribed limits, enabling swift action. The Board plans to expand this monitoring network to additional locations.
Noise levels are monitored separately during daytime (6 am to 10 pm) and night-time (10 pm to 6 am), in line with statutory provisions.
In a move to involve the public, the GSPCB has activated a 24-hour complaint helpline (8956487938). Martins said that once a complaint is received, it is immediately forwarded to the concerned police station, deputy collector and police inspector for prompt action.
The Chairman said the Board has also begun imposing penalties based on monitoring data. The fine for a first violation is Rs 20,000, which increases to Rs 40,000 for a second offence. Repeated violations can result in either suspension of consent to operate or fines of up to Rs 1 lakh.
Since September, the GSPCB has penalised 22 establishments, while 14 cases are currently under monitoring. Nearly 600 additional cases are under scrutiny, with a majority of violations reported from the North Goa coastal belt.
Martins appealed to businesses and organisers to comply strictly with the law, stressing that the Board will not hesitate to act against violators.
“We are enforcing the rules seriously. Fines have been imposed and many cases are being examined. Ensure music remains within limits and stops by 10 pm,” he said.
He further clarified that there is no exemption for weddings or private functions, except for 15 specific days in a year that are officially notified by the Environment Department.
