Residents of Mulund (West) have raised concerns over prolonged and excessive noise from a piling machine operating at an ongoing Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) project near the old Saibaba Temple premises. Locals say the high-decibel construction activity has been severely affecting daily life in the surrounding residential area, prompting complaints to both civic authorities and the police.
The issue gained wider attention after a resident, Sunil, shared his experience on social media, describing the piling noise as continuous and overpowering. “Even after closing doors and windows, it has become impossible to sit inside the house. Life feels suffocating because of the noise,” he wrote, highlighting the scale of disruption faced by households nearby.
In his post, the resident also questioned what he perceived as selective enforcement of noise pollution rules. “If a public temple pooja is stopped for noise, then which rule allows a piling machine to run for hours in a residential area?” he asked, pointing to instances where festive or religious sounds are curtailed swiftly by authorities.
Residents stressed that the construction site is located close to homes, a maternity facility, and areas where students are preparing for crucial academic examinations. “With SSC and HSC exams around the corner, such noise in a residential area is putting students’ studies at risk,” the resident said. He further claimed that other construction projects in the vicinity are being executed without causing comparable disturbance. “Many reputed builders are working nearby, but nowhere is such an unbearable noise-making machine being used. Why is this project being given so much freedom?” he questioned.
Local residents have demanded that the piling activity be halted or shifted to low-noise construction methods, along with an immediate inspection to check compliance with noise pollution norms. They have also sought strict action if violations are found.
Police officials confirmed that the complaint has been formally escalated. “We have reported the matter to the Thane Police. They will look into it as per procedure,” an officer said. Authorities are now expected to assess the situation and determine whether corrective measures are required to address residents’ concerns.
Source: The Free Press Journal
