Kanwariyas turn up noise offensive

Noise pollution, blocked roads and traffic diversions marked the increased rush of Kanwariyas into the Capital, which serves as a thoroughfare on their way to and back from the Ganges.

- Aaditya Khatwani and Karn Pratap Singh

Residents of south and southeast Delhi complained of disruption to their daily lives, and also raised health concerns, alleging boom boxes were being played loudly after 10pm beyond permissible limits.

While Delhi Police said they have heightened security and created diversions to ensure law and order, the problem has compounded this year, as there are 374 camps last year—over double the 170 camps last year—set up this year, residents said.

Delhi Police officers told HT that regulating “random” and unruly groups that enter Delhi from other states is tough, as they sometimes turn “aggressive”.