Many of the inconveniences caused by loud music played around us could have been avoided if only certain people could have shown some consideration for the rights of others to a peaceful life.

Nothing is more annoying than having a blockhead deciding to raise the volume of his radio or cassette without thinking that if he is allowed to listen to music, others have a right to some silence.

Are people losing their capacity for being considerate? Are they turning so individualistic that they cannot see that loud music disturbs others?

There may be a few occasions when it is acceptable that people play music loud, for instance, a birthday party, a wedding, festivities, or New Year.

However, it is when people make it a habit to play music loud that it is really nerve-racking. One should consider certain basic points before playing music loud, either during the day or at night:

-Will it not be perceived as mischievous on one?s part?

-There might be old people around.

• There might be children taking a rest at the neighbour?s place.

-A baby might be sleeping or suffering from some illness and need some moments of rest.

• The neighbours may have had a hard day at work and they need some silence.

• People may be watching television. Music might annoy them and prevent them from sharing some warm moments.

• Someone next door might be revising for his or her examinations.

• The children next door might be doing homework and loud music might disturb them. They might perhaps be compelled to stop doing their homework and face unpleasant consequences from teachers the next day.

• Is it really necessary to play music loud?

• What happens if I am suffering from, let?s say, a bad toothache or cold, and my neighbour, in his turn, chooses to play music loud. Will I like it?

• And in case my neighbour decides to take legal action, will not our otherwise cordial relationship become permanently strained?

• Am I not being irresponsible?

Suresh RAMPHUL