The Islamabad district administration has banned the sale and use of plastic horns (bajay/vuvuzelas) in the federal capital ahead of August 14 Independence Day celebrations, citing noise pollution and public order concerns.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon issued strict directives for authorities to confiscate banned items from stalls and warned that negligent officers would face accountability. Assistant commissioners and magistrates have been ordered to conduct daily raids until Independence Day to enforce the ban.
The brightly colored plastic horns, popular among children during national celebrations, are notorious for their ear-piercing noise levels—similar to those heard in sports stadiums. While a staple of festive fervor, they have increasingly drawn complaints over public disturbance and environmental harm due to non-biodegradable waste.
The crackdown reflects efforts to balance patriotic enthusiasm with civic responsibility, as thousands of vendors typically sell such items in the lead-up to Pakistan’s Independence Day. Authorities aim to promote eco-friendly and quieter alternatives for celebrations while maintaining public peace.