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In a renewed effort to control noise pollution and maintain public order during the festive season, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon on Wednesday officially reimposed a ban on the sale and use of plastic horns, commonly referred to as baaja, across the federal capital.
The announcement was made via the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Islamabad DC, where he reiterated that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating the directive.
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“A ban has been imposed on the sale and use of horns in the federal capital. Legal action will be taken in case of violation,” Memon said in his statement.
Annual Ban Resurfaces Ahead of August Celebrations
The ban comes just days ahead of Independence Day celebrations on August 14, a period when the use of baajas by children and youth becomes widespread in streets, markets, and public spaces.
This is not the first time such a ban has been implemented. The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration had previously imposed a similar restriction last year in August 2024, citing concerns about noise pollution, public disturbance, and nuisance in residential areas.
Why the Ban? Noise, Safety, and Public Nuisance
The use of plastic horns, although seen by many as a form of festive expression, has long been criticized for contributing to noise pollution, causing disruption to traffic, and creating inconvenience for the elderly, hospital patients, and residents.
City authorities have frequently received complaints from:
- Parents of infants and school-going children
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Residents of densely populated neighborhoods
- Traffic police and law enforcement units
According to health experts, prolonged exposure to high-pitched horn sounds can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss, elevated stress levels, and irritability, especially among sensitive groups such as children and the elderly.
Legal Framework and Enforcement
The renewed ban is expected to be enforced under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which empowers local authorities to impose temporary restrictions in public interest.
Violators may face:
- Confiscation of the plastic horns
- Fines
- Possible arrest under violation of Section 144
- Sealing of shops selling prohibited items
Law enforcement personnel, including special teams from the Islamabad Police and Assistant Commissioners, will be conducting market inspections, especially in areas known for festive item sales such as:
- Aabpara Market
- G-9 Markaz
- Karachi Company
- Jinnah Super Market
Shopkeepers Warned in Advance
Retailers and vendors have been specifically instructed not to stock or sell plastic horns, or risk facing penalties. Several shopkeepers have already been issued notices, while some have had inventory seized in earlier enforcement drives.
“We were told last year too, but customers keep asking for them. Now with the new warning, we will stop selling to avoid any legal trouble,” said a vendor in G-10 Markaz.
Local authorities have encouraged shopkeepers to sell alternative festive items, such as:
- National flags and badges
- Independence Day-themed caps and t-shirts
- LED wristbands and stickers
- Toy flags and balloons
Public Response: Mixed Reactions
The public reaction to the ban has been mixed. While many citizens and parents have welcomed the move, some youngsters and vendors have expressed disappointment, arguing that baajas are part of their celebration culture.
Supportive Voices:
“These horns are a nightmare. My baby can’t sleep in the week leading up to 14th August,” said a resident of G-6.
“We live near a hospital, and the noise is unbearable at night. This ban is absolutely necessary,” noted another citizen.
Critical Views:
“It’s just for fun. We should be allowed to celebrate with full spirit,” said a teenager in F-10.
“If they ban everything fun, what’s left of Independence Day?” asked a vendor who previously stocked baajas.
Looking Ahead: Focus on Responsible Celebration
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon emphasized that the purpose of the ban is not to curb joy, but to ensure safe and peaceful celebrations for all.
“We want everyone to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day with full enthusiasm — but in a way that doesn’t harm others or disturb public peace,” he added in a follow-up statement.
The ICT administration has also launched a public awareness campaign through social media, urging citizens to report shops or individuals violating the ban.
Conclusion
As August 14 approaches, the Islamabad Capital Territory administration is making it clear that festive cheer must be balanced with civic responsibility. The ban on plastic horns is part of broader efforts to create a safer, quieter, and more inclusive environment for all residents of the capital.
Citizens are encouraged to enjoy Independence Day responsibly — by waving flags, wearing green and white, decorating homes — and leaving behind the noisy baajas for good.
