Pune, 17 February 2026: The Pune district administration has granted conditional relaxation of loudspeaker restrictions for 15 designated festival days in 2026, allowing the use of sound systems from 6 am to midnight.
The order was issued by District Collector Jitendra Dudi under Rule 5(3) of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, amended in 2017. Officials clarified that the permission will apply only on specified festival days and must strictly adhere to prescribed decibel limits.
The relaxation will be applicable on following occasions:
Shiv Jayanti – February 19
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti – April 14
Maharashtra Day – May 1
Ganesh Chaturthi – During the Ganpati festival period
Eid-e-Milad – September (as per lunar calendar)
Anant Chaturdashi – September 19, 20, 22, 23, 24 and 25
Navratri – October 19 and 20
Christmas – December 25
New Year’s Eve – December 31
Authorities emphasised that the exemption does not override existing noise level limits for residential, commercial and industrial areas. The relaxation will not be applicable in silent zones such as areas around hospitals, educational institutions and courts.
Enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure compliance with the rules. Officials stated that any violation will attract action under relevant legal provisions.
Collector Dudi said the annual notification aims to balance traditional celebrations with environmental concerns and appealed to organisers and citizens to follow the guidelines responsibly.
