Bengaluru: For over five years, residents of Jayamahal Extension have faced constant disruption from loud events held at the Jayamahal Palace Hotel. Despite numerous complaints, authorities have taken limited action to address the noise, leaving the community frustrated.

The Citizens Initiative for Jayamahal Area (CIJMA), a collective of local residents, has been advocating for a resolution. Abhilasha Sachdev, treasurer of CIJMA and long-time resident, expressed concern over the weekend events, stating that the noise levels frequently exceed those set by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB). According to the board, the permissible noise levels in residential areas are 55 decibels (dB) during the day and 45 dB at night.

“Every time there’s a large event, we call 112. The organisers lower the volume while the police are present, but as soon as they leave, the noise starts again,” Sachdev lamented.

The problem has intensified since the opening of the Chamara Vajra Gate on Jayamahal Main Road, which has led to an increase in day-long events at the hotel, further disturbing the peace in the neighbourhood.

Disruption for Residents

Shilla Shree, a resident of Castle Rock Apartments, described how the booming sound systems make her glass windows rattle. “On event days, I leave home because it’s unbearable to stay. I’ve stopped inviting guests because of the noise,” she said.

Back in 2018, the KSPCB issued a show-cause notice to the hotel after multiple complaints, but the issue remains unresolved. In recent weeks, residents have turned to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) for help. Snehal R, Zonal Commissioner (East), reported that a team of engineers inspected the hotel and has instructed the management to avoid hosting events that disturb the local community. A formal notice will be issued soon.

Hotel Management Response

Pratik G, the hotel manager, said that while guidelines are given to event organisers, the hotel does not monitor noise compliance throughout the events. He also claimed that the noise complaints come from “only a few” families in the area, minimising the extent of the issue.