Orissa High Court prohibits tall gates and light structures in Cuttack during Dussehra

The Orissa High Court has prohibited the construction of excessively tall gates during Dussehra in Cuttack. The court has also banned arches and light gates that obstruct roads. 

The directive came in connection with a case related to civic issues in Cuttack city, keeping in view the problems arising during festive seasons.

The District Collector has been tasked with monitoring the height and safety of such gates. For festival-related permissions, including gate construction and safety measures, a single-window clearance system will be introduced. 

Before granting approval, puja committees will be required to submit design drawings of proposed gates. The Collector informed the court about these measures and has been directed to place them before puja committees during preparatory meetings.

The court also expressed concerns over noise pollution during the festival. The court instructed the Collector to ensure that noise levels remain within the 65-decibel limit. Additionally, the High Court expressed displeasure over the poor condition of city roads ahead of the festive season.

In a stern direction, the court ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) to adopt a 'zero tolerance' policy against the forcible collection of puja donations.

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"Tall gates will not be allowed, and a limit will be set. If electrical gates are allowed, proper safety measures will be ensured. Last year, some tall gates collapsed due to heavy rain and wind, and some vehicles were damaged in the process. Some people also got electric shocks. The directive has been issued to avoid any kind of accidents," said petitioner's lawyer Saroj Kumar Padhy.

"A meeting will be held with SP, Collector, other officials, peace committees, and puja committees. In that meeting, the modus operandi of the strategy will be decided. A provisional NOC will be provided initially. If the terms and conditions of the NOC are adhered then it will continue. In case of any deviatio,n it will either be cancelled or necessary rectifications will be sought," he added.