PATNA, Feb. 20 -- The Bihar government on Thursday announced that it will ban disc jockey (DJ) sound systems mounted on vehicles - commonly used in marriage processions - citing concerns over noise pollution and traffic congestion.

Rural works and transport minister Shrawan Kumar made the announcement in the Bihar Legislative Council while replying to a starred question raised by Independent MLC Banshidhar Brijwasi from the Tirhut graduates' constituency. The minister said he would direct officials to examine the issue and initiate steps to enforce the ban within 15 days.

"No DJ will be allowed without permission," Kumar said, adding that the practice not only violates traffic norms but also creates serious public inconvenience.

Brijwa...