Eateries issued noise, operating hour restrictions
In a decisive move to maintain law and order and ensure public safety, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Ankur Gupta has issued a comprehensive order under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code.
The directive, which aims to control late-night operations and curb noise pollution, mandates that all restaurants, clubs, and licensed eateries in the city close by midnight.
The directive mandates that these establishments must cease taking orders for food and beverages after 11:30pm and refrain from allowing new customers to enter post this time.
Furthermore, the premises adjacent to liquor stores must completely shut down by midnight or as per their licensing terms.
The order also places stringent restrictions on noise levels, emphasising the need for noise control across various public venues. All establishments are instructed to limit their sound levels to a maximum of 10 (A) decibels. Activities that generate significant noise, including DJs, live orchestras, and singers, must cease or be reduced substantially by 10 pm. After this time, no noise produced within a building or premises should be audible beyond its walls.
The regulation further extends to vehicles with music systems, stipulating that their sound must not be audible outside the vehicle at any time of the day.
In a separate move, the DCP has issued a ban on the use of horns in silence zones and during the night hours, specifically between 10 pm and 6 am, in residential areas.
The only exception to this rule will be in cases of public emergencies. Additionally, the use of sound systems near public spaces will be restricted to a maximum of 10 (A) decibels.
In line with Supreme Court guidelines, the use of drums, horns, and loudspeakers is strictly prohibited between 10 pm and 6 am unless under exceptional circumstances.
This applies not only to public spaces but also to private sound systems in hotels, palaces, and residences, where noise levels must remain below 5 (A) decibels during these hours. These orders will remain in effect until February 25, 2025.
