The Tripura State Pollution Control Board, in collaboration with the Tripura EIACP Hub, hosted a discussion meeting with Puja Organizers, Clubs, Voluntary Organizations, and NGOs at the Auditorium Hall of Sukanta Academ on Thursday  at Agartala. The primary objective of the event was to sensitize the puja organizers to combat noise, water, and air pollution, and to also control the use of single-use plastic products during the puja season.

The event was graced by Animesh Debbarma , Minister of Science, Technology and Environment  and other distinguished attendees included Dr. K. Sasikumar, Secretary of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment and Chairman of the Tripura State Pollution Control Board; Dr. Vishal Kumar, District Magistrate & Collector of West Tripura District; Mahender Singh, Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Tripura; Dhruv Nath, Additional Superintendent of Police and Dr. Bishu Karmakar, Member Secretary of the Tripura State Pollution Control Board.

Minister Animesh Debbarma highlighted the importance of this Interaction Meet. He said; just as we need sounds, in the same way it is also important to keep them within prescribed limits. He cited examples of eminent musicians to say that just as the festive days are not complete without some melodious music, similarly too much sound makes leads to environmental pollution which affects every living beings directly or indirectly. He appealed to all to come forward and take active part to control any kind of pollution and play an active role in building pollution free, clean Tripura.

In his welcome address, Dr. K. Sasikumar emphasized that noise pollution is a prevalent issue during the puja season and urged everyone to ensure their actions do not harm others. Dr. Bishu Karmakar followed with a detailed PowerPoint presentation on various noise pollution laws, regulations concerning the construction of idols and pandals, idol immersion, and post-puja rituals. He appealed to the puja organizers to adhere strictly to these laws.

Dr. Vishal Kumar highlighted the need to minimize noise pollution during the puja days, noting that traditional pujas did not involve sound systems or DJ sets. However, recognizing the livelihoods dependent on these businesses, he stated that sound systems and DJ sets would be permitted in a controlled manner following the regulatory limits. He also warned of legal action against any violations in this regards.

Additional Superintendent of Police, Dhruv Nath, announced that the Tripura Police would soon launch an awareness program to ensure the mandatory installation of sound limiters in sound systems. He stressed the importance of collective effort in combating noise pollution.

In the vote of thanks, Mahender Singh, Director, Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Tripura, thanked everyone present on the occasion and sought everyone's cooperation in implementing the regulations discussed and encouraged everyone to follow an environment- friendly lifestyle.