Noise pollution from temples

It is indeed a most welcome ruling of the Supreme Court to ban the use of loudspeakers between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. However, this does not appear to affect the religious sector as some temples continue to blare pirith over the loud speakers in the wee hours of the morning.

Though a devout Buddhist, living in a residential area adjoining a temple has been a bane for my family and me as well as all our neighbours. Most residents do not complain due to the 'respect' they have for the temple but it is a problem as it is not even possible to have a conversation without having to speak loud, leave alone the effect on children who need to concentrate on studies, sleeping infants, the sick, etc.

It would be understandable if the loud speakers are used on special days. However, it would be a relief to be rid of the daily use of these noise polluting instruments. Besides, a radio is part of almost every household and any person wishing to listen to 'pirith' can resort to the radio, causing no disturbance to neighbours.

Wouldn't it be appropriate to remove all the loudspeakers from religious places and issue permits for use only on special occasions?

By R. Fernando, Malabe