Residents, commuters decry use of loudspeakers blaring promotional messages by street vendors
Srinagar, Feb 23: Commuters and residents of various areas of the city have expressed concern over blaring of pre-recorded messages and music played through public address systems mounted on kiosks and load carriers for promotional purposes by street vendors saying it causes inconvenience to them.
Locals said street vendors dealing with fruits, vegetables, clothes, utensils are increasingly relying on loudspeakers to announce their presence, a practice residents say has crossed the line from convenience to daily disturbance.
The issue has become more pronounced since the onset of the holy month of Ramadhan, when the number of fruit and vegetable vendors moving through residential lanes has risen sharply. Beginning early in the morning and continuing through the day, the repetitive, high-pitched announcements and jingles reverberate across localities, including areas on the outskirts that were earlier considered relatively calm.
“This is not a one-time call. The same message keeps looping for long durations. When you are trying to concentrate on studies, that constant background noise breaks focus completely,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a college student from Hazratbal.
Those working from home echo similar concerns. Mudasir, a software professional, said the loud announcements often spill into online meetings and calls. “I attend client meetings on my laptop. Suddenly, there is loud music and sales announcements in the background. It reflects poorly on us professionally, and there is nothing we can do about it,” he said.
For families with elderly or sick members, the disturbance is even more acute. A resident of an uptown locality said his ailing parent, who remains awake most of the night due to medical issues, manages to fall asleep only during the day.
“Just when the patient finally rests, these loudspeakers pass through the lane. It is mentally exhausting for the entire family,” he said.
Residents point out that while street vending is a long-standing and accepted part of urban life, the unchecked use of public address systems has added a new layer of noise pollution. Many allege there is no clear regulation on volume levels, timing, or the use of music, leaving enforcement agencies with little visible oversight.
“There should be rules. Announcements, if any, should be brief and at low volume. What we have now is noise that invades homes, classrooms, and workplaces,” said another local.
Locals are urging the district administration in Srinagar to frame and enforce guidelines to regulate the use of loudspeakers on vendor vehicles, particularly in residential areas and during early morning hours.
Despite repeated attempts, the SMC Commissioner did not respond to calls for his response on the issue.
