Zainapora, Nov 21 (KNO): Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Zainapora, Bilal Ahmad has issued a stringent public order banning the use of mikes and megaphones on moving vehicles across the sub-division.
The move comes in response to a rising number of complaints about noise pollution caused by vendors using loudspeakers while selling fruits and other consumables.
Officials informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the administration had been flooded with complaints from residents during public outreach programmes, including the recent Block Diwas held on November 19, where locals highlighted the “unbearable disturbance” caused by frequent loud announcements by mobile vendors.
Invoking Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the SDM directed that no vendor shall henceforth use loudspeakers or megaphones while moving through streets, lanes, or market areas within Sub-Division Zainapora.
The order states that the practice has been causing “noise and other pollutions… rendering public spaces congested and susceptible to accidents”, and is “injurious to the health and physical comfort of the community”.
The notice further warns that any violation will attract strict penal action under the law.
The decision has drawn strong support from residents, many of whom say the problem has been growing unchecked for years.
Speaking to KNO, Mohammad Yousuf, a resident of Zainapora, said the constant loudspeaker announcements had become “a daily nuisance”.
"Since early morning till late evening, these vendor vehicles keep roaming with loudspeakers on full volume. It disturbs people, especially students, patients, and elderly persons. This order was much needed,” he said.
Another local, Shakeela Bano, said the elderly and sick were the worst affected. "My mother is bedridden, and every time these vendors pass by with loudspeakers, she gets startled. Such noise has no justification. We are thankful the administration finally listened.”
Parents also expressed relief, saying the move will help students prepare for exams without any disturbance.
Rameez Ahmad, a college student, said that during exam season, the noise becomes unbearable. "I hope this order is implemented strictly, and other areas also follow the same,” he said.
Several residents from neighbouring villages have called for similar orders across Kashmir.
"The issue is not limited to Zainapora. Almost every town and village faces this problem,” said Imran Mir, a shopkeeper from Shopian. “Authorities across Kashmir should impose a uniform ban on these unnecessary loudspeakers. Public comfort must be prioritised.”
Officials said the move aims not just to curb noise pollution but also to reduce road congestion and accident risks caused by randomly parked vendor vehicles.
An official told KNO that enforcement teams have already been instructed to monitor the movement of such vehicles and take action wherever violations are noticed—(KNO)