Lucknow, May 12 The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Monday expressed concern over the commercial use of parks, playgrounds and open spaces in Uttar Pradesh and directed the state government and concerned authorities to reconsider the existing policy governing such activities.
The court observed that commercial events in parks adversely affect the environment, birds and residents living in nearby areas.
A bench comprising Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla passed the order while hearing a public interest litigation filed by Dharampal Yadav seeking a ban on commercial activities in parks, including Janeshwar Mishra Park.
During the hearing, the bench observed that under Section 6 of the Uttar Pradesh Parks, Playgrounds and Open Spaces (Preservation and Regulation) Act, 1975, parks, playgrounds and open spaces included in the official list could only be used for their designated purpose and any other activity would require prior approval from the competent authority.
The court directed all divisional commissioners and district magistrates across the state to conduct surveys of parks, playgrounds and open spaces in their respective jurisdictions and ensure their inclusion in the official list prepared under the 1975 Act, according to the order.
The authorities have also been asked to submit complete details of such sites before the court.
Taking a strict view of noise pollution caused by weddings and other public functions, the bench further directed the state government, police, municipal corporations and development authorities to ensure action against loud music and noise levels exceeding permissible limits after 10 pm, it stated.
The court said regulation of noise pollution was necessary keeping in mind the convenience and well-being of local residents, especially children and elderly people.
