A petition before the Kerala High Court has raised alarms over temples allegedly defying firecracker bans in silent zones, disturbing residents and violating pollution norms.
The plea, filed by 59-year-old Venkidachalam, calls for strict enforcement of restrictions on fireworks, particularly at night, arguing that the explosions disrupt public peace and pose health hazards. He claims his home, just 300 meters from the Vadakkumnadhan and Paramekkavu temples in Thrissur, is frequently bombarded by ear-splitting blasts in violation of pollution control guidelines.
The petition highlights that most temples lack proper licences to use firecrackers and contends that even legally obtained licences should not override the right of residents to a noise-free environment. It further argues that fireworks have never been an essential religious ritual and should not be excused under the guise of tradition.
The petitioner referenced past court rulings limiting the use of fireworks, citing a 2019 Kerala High Court decision that relaxed restrictions for Thrissur Pooram but warned against misuse. He pointed out that in 2022, noise levels at the festival’s firework display soared beyond 125 decibels—far above the permissible limit of 40 decibels at night and 50 during the day in silent zones.
Beyond Thrissur, the petition notes similar violations near the Ernakulam district courts—located in a designated silent zone—where the Ernakulathappan temple allegedly sets off firecrackers even during working hours. Other temples named for flouting noise pollution laws include Kodungallur’s Thiruvanchikkulam Mahadeva temple and the Thriprayar Sreerama temple.
The petitioner urges the High Court to mandate authorities to curb these violations and take firm action against temples bursting fireworks without valid permits. He also seeks specific intervention to prevent the Paramekkavu temple from using high-decibel fireworks unless legally authorized.
