GUWAHATI: While the reopening of the CM FIFA Fan Park at Latasil Playground under the Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) has been welcomed by football enthusiasts, several residents living in the surrounding locality have voiced concerns over excessive noise and late-night music.
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The fan park, which reopened on June 29, has been attracting large gatherings of football fans during FIFA Club World Cup screenings.
However, residents claim that the loud music played before and after the matches, particularly during late-night and early morning hours, has been causing inconvenience and disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of the neighbourhood.
Speaking to GPlus, a resident residing near Ugratara Temple said the volume of the music, especially the heavy bass, has become a major concern for families living in the area.
"The sound of the music at midnight and early morning is extremely disturbing. We have elderly people at home, and one of our family members is expecting a child. Continuous disturbance during sleeping hours is not good for their health. We have no objection to the fan park itself. In fact, we appreciate such initiatives that promote sports and bring people together. Our concern is only with the way the sound system is being operated. The music is so loud that the bass makes it feel as if our building is vibrating," the resident alleged.
The resident further clarified that the issue is not with the football screenings or the gathering of fans, but with the lack of regulation over the sound levels, particularly during late-night hours.
GPlus reached out to officials of the Assam Tourism Development Corporation for their response to the allegations regarding noise pollution and crowd management. However, no response was received till the time of publishing this report.
Apart from noise-related concerns, some locals have also raised questions about the atmosphere around the venue, especially during late-night gatherings.
Another resident from the locality told GPlus that the area becomes heavily crowded during match screenings, with people occupying nearby roads and public spaces.
The resident also claimed that some visitors were seen consuming intoxicating substances. "We are happy that people are coming together to enjoy football. But proper monitoring is necessary. Sometimes, youths are seen getting intoxicated, and that creates an unpleasant atmosphere. I hope better arrangements are made so that the venue remains safe and enjoyable for everyone," the resident said.
When contacted regarding the allegations of intoxication and public disorder, GPlus speaking with the officials of Latasil Police said that one person was arrested on the previous day for allegedly misbehaving while under the influence of intoxicants.
According to the police, the situation at the fan park is currently under control, and no other cases of a similar nature have been registered so far. Officials added that police personnel continue to monitor the area during match screenings to ensure law and order is maintained.
The CM FIFA Fan Park was launched as a public viewing venue to allow football fans to watch FIFA Club World Cup matches on a giant screen while enjoying a festive atmosphere.
As attendance continues to grow, residents have urged the authorities to strike a balance between hosting public events and ensuring the comfort and safety of people living in the surrounding neighbourhood.