Bombay HC bans firecrackers on public roads, laser lights during festivals in Maharashtra

Mumbai/Nagpur, September 23, 2026: The Bombay High Court has issued key directions to curb rising noise and air pollution during festivals.

On September 22, a division bench of Justice Girish S. Kulkarni and Justice Neela K. Gokhale directed that bursting firecrackers on public roads and pathways during religious processions and public celebrations in Maharashtra be barred.

The use of laser lights, high-intensity lumen lights and beams during festivals and religious processions will also be prohibited. Equipment found violating the rules can be seized.

The court made clear there will be no relaxation of noise pollution norms in the name of festivals. DJs and other sound systems must operate within the prescribed decibel limits. Police and the administration have been directed to check sound levels on the spot and take action against violations.

Organisers have been given specific directions: they must arrange a decibel measurement meter at events and processions, use an internal sound limiter in sound systems, and publicly display the permission granted for the procession and loudspeakers. Sound systems and other equipment can be seized if the rules are violated.

The directions also provide for a security deposit of up to Rs 1 lakh for a group or mandal and up to Rs 50,000 for an individual organiser. This amount can be forfeited if noise rules are violated.

During the hearing, restrictions already in force in Nagpur on DJs and laser lights were also mentioned. Police and the administration in Nagpur are likely to keep special watch on compliance with these rules during the upcoming festivals and religious processions.

The High Court's clear message is that religious and cultural events can continue, but they must be held within the bounds of the law and prescribed pollution standards.