As Pakistan’s Independence Day approaches, the Islamabad Capital Territory administration has taken a significant step to ensure a peaceful celebration by imposing a 10-day ban on the sale, purchase, and use of honking toy horns, commonly known as “baaja,” within the federal capital. This decision, driven by concerns over public safety and the smooth flow of traffic, reflects the administration’s proactive approach to managing the city’s environment during the festive period.
The ban, which was announced through a formal notification issued by Islamabad’s Additional District Magistrate, Usman Ashraf, has been implemented under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code. This legal measure allows the authorities to prohibit certain activities in the interest of maintaining public order. The ban is effective immediately and will remain in place for the next ten days, covering the critical period leading up to and including Independence Day.
According to the notification, the primary reason for the ban is the disruption caused by the widespread use of these toy horns, which have become a common accessory during celebrations. The incessant honking of these toys not only creates noise pollution but also interferes with the smooth flow of vehicular traffic across Islamabad. The authorities have expressed concerns that the unrestricted use of these toy horns could lead to chaotic traffic conditions, especially as the city experiences an influx of people and vehicles during the Independence Day celebrations.
In a related statement, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz has strongly urged citizens to comply with the ban and avoid using toy horns during the festive period. He emphasized the importance of maintaining public order and respecting the rights of others to enjoy the celebrations without unnecessary disturbances. The Deputy Commissioner also issued a directive to all stall owners and vendors, instructing them to cease the sale of toy horns immediately. This move aims to curb the availability of these toys, thereby reducing their use in public spaces.
To ensure strict enforcement of the ban, the Deputy Commissioner has ordered assistant commissioners to carry out inspections across the city and confiscate any toy horns found being sold or used. This enforcement effort underscores the administration’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and orderly environment during the Independence Day festivities. The Deputy Commissioner also warned that individuals caught selling or using toy horns could face legal consequences, as the ban is backed by the authority of Section 144. He urged citizens to adhere to the directives and cooperate with the authorities to avoid any potential legal issues.
This decision by the Islamabad administration is not an isolated one. Similar actions have been taken in other parts of the country in the past to address the issue of noise pollution and public disturbances caused by toy horns. Last year, for instance, a judicial magistrate’s court in Karachi directed the local authorities to take action against the sale and use of toy horns ahead of Independence Day. This move was in response to complaints from residents who were disturbed by the noise generated by these toys.
Additionally, in 2022, a petition was filed in the Lahore High Court seeking a ban on plastic toy horns and whistles due to widespread noise complaints. The petition argued that these toys contributed significantly to noise pollution, affecting the quality of life in residential areas. However, the court dismissed the plea, leaving the issue to be addressed by local administrations as they deemed necessary.
The recent ban in Islamabad is part of a broader effort by the city’s administration to ensure that Independence Day celebrations are conducted in a manner that is both enjoyable and respectful of the public’s peace and safety. While the use of toy horns is often seen as a harmless way to express joy and excitement, the authorities have recognized the potential negative impact on the community, particularly in terms of noise and traffic disruptions. By imposing this temporary ban, the Islamabad administration hopes to strike a balance between festive celebrations and the need for public order.
As the city gears up for Independence Day, citizens are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and respect the measures put in place by the administration. The ban on toy horns is a reminder that while celebrations are important, they should not come at the expense of the well-being and comfort of others. The authorities have made it clear that they are committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for everyone, and compliance with the ban will be key to achieving this goal.
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