Nagpur Police start 24-hour helpline for firecracker and noise complaints

With the onset of winter, the administration has become watchful about air and noise pollution. During festivals, firecracker smoke rises and DJs, loudspeakers and other sound amplifiers are played loudly. This can cause people inconvenience.

For this reason, Nagpur Police have started a special 24-hour helpline for pollution complaints. Citizens can report to this number if they see rules on firecrackers and noise being broken.

According to Nagpur Police, complaints about noise and air pollution can be registered on 9823300100. The number is operational day and night, that is, 24 hours. On receiving a complaint, the police will direct the concerned police station to take action.

If rules are broken while bursting firecrackers, the emergency police helpline 112 can also be called. Police have said that bursting firecrackers on public roads, lanes and footpaths in Nagpur is prohibited. Fireworks are also banned in silence zones around hospitals, schools and courts.

Where to complain about noise depends on its source. According to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), separate agencies are designated for industrial and non-industrial noise. Complaints about noise from a factory or industrial unit can be made to the MPCB. Complaints about DJs, loudspeakers and other non-industrial noise should be made to the police department. The MPCB website also has an online complaint facility.

When complaining, it is necessary to give the exact location and time of the incident and the source of the noise. If possible, keep evidence such as photographs, video or audio recordings. Complaints can also be filed online on the Maharashtra Police citizen portal. The complaint is sent to the concerned police station, and the complainant may be asked for more information if required.

While bursting firecrackers, it is necessary to follow the prescribed rules and the orders of the local administration. Playing a DJ at high volume, running loudspeakers after the permitted time and making noise in silence zones can become a nuisance to others. If citizens stay alert and complain in time, it can help the administration curb violations of the rules.