Top News

File image of an aerial view of Hojai district (Photo: Nomad_rintu/Meta)

Hojai, April 20: The Hojai district, encompassing areas like Lumding, Lanka, and Hojai town, is grappling with a serious public health crisis due to escalating noise and air pollution.

The rampant use of loud sound systems and firecrackers at nearly every event has created a hazardous environment for local residents.

What used to be confined to major festivals has now evolved into a frequent and disruptive occurrence, with loud music and explosive fireworks becoming commonplace.

Community members are expressing that the situation has escalated beyond mere annoyance to a significant health risk.

While locals appreciate celebrations, they vehemently oppose the unregulated and incessant use of loudspeakers and firecrackers.

“In the past, it was just a couple of times a year, but now it happens almost weekly. This is no longer a celebration; it feels like torture for the community,” remarked a Lumding resident.

The public health implications are alarming, particularly for the elderly who suffer from heart conditions.

Sudden loud noises from fireworks and high-decibel sound systems can induce panic, stress, and even heart attacks in susceptible individuals.

Individuals with asthma and dust allergies are also experiencing severe challenges.

Residents have noted a rise in coughing, breathlessness, and chest discomfort, particularly among children and the elderly.

Health professionals caution that ongoing exposure to such pollution can result in long-term respiratory issues, hearing loss, elevated blood pressure, and significant mental stress. Additionally, sleep deprivation caused by late-night noise is further deteriorating the health of many.

The situation is equally perilous for animals. Pets like dogs and cats are silently suffering due to the overwhelming noise levels.

Loud fireworks induce panic in animals, often leading to injuries, trauma, or even death. Many pet owners are anxious about their animals' safety during these events.

Residents from Lanka, Binnakandi, and other areas have vocally criticized the local administration for its failure to manage the situation effectively.

According to locals, authorities have not implemented any meaningful measures to curb these activities, allowing offenders to operate without consequence.

“It’s evident that the administration is ignoring the issue. People are using loud sound systems late into the night and setting off firecrackers without restraint. There is no oversight whatsoever,” stated a resident from Lanka.

Despite existing regulations regarding noise levels and firecracker usage, enforcement remains virtually nonexistent.

Loudspeakers continue to blare at high volumes during late-night hours, disrupting students, patients, and working individuals.

Many residents feel that this administrative inaction has emboldened more individuals to flout the rules, exacerbating the situation daily.

The enjoyment of a few is now jeopardizing the well-being of the entire community.

Residents are also calling for awareness campaigns to educate the public about the detrimental effects of noise and air pollution.

They believe that both stringent action and community cooperation are essential to address this escalating crisis.

By Deepjit Paul