BANGALORE: Koppal saw an increase in its noise levels due to the 78th Kannada Sahithya Sammelan celebrations. But, as per reports by Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), Koppal topped the noise levels during this year’s Deepavali festivities.

The district ranks first for the most noise produced during Deepavali. Bangalore stands second, while Mandya and Bagalkot stand third and fourth respectively.

A positive review says that over-all levels of noise pollution have significantly come down in the state during Deepavali this year.

Compared to last year’s report, noise levels have seen a shocking increase of 56 per cent in Koppal. A record of 80.9 decibel against 52 decibel of noise was recorded during the festival last year. Bellary also topped the list with 103 decibels last year, but has maintained a low profile with a decline to 70.1 decibel.

Credits go to the SC orders that banned illegal mining in Bellary.

“This report has come as a shocker. It could have happened due to the migration of people who were engaged in mining and its related businesses to Koppal,” said KSPCB chairman A S Sadashivaiah.

He noted that wherever there was prosperity, noise levels had increased. There is an increase of 27 per cent of noise levels in Bangalore during Deepavali as compared to the national limits. The noise levels have decreased by 22 per cent at Kolar which had earlier recorded of 64.5 decibel and 20 per cent decrease at Bidar with 65 decibel.