Mumbai, June 29 (UNI) At least six mosques across the city have adopted a digital solution to maintain the call to prayer amid tightening restrictions on loudspeaker use.
The "Online Azan" application, developed by a Tamil Nadu-based tech firm, delivers real-time azan broadcasts directly to worshippers' mobile devices.
The initiative follows increased police enforcement of sound regulations, including visits to mosques like Mahim Juma Masjid where authorities warned of legal action against loudspeaker violations.
"This led us to temporarily disable our sound system," said Fahad Khalil Pathan, managing trustee of Mahim Juma Masjid said today.
Developed with technical expertise from Tirunelveli professionals, the free app streams live azan audio precisely synchronized with mosque announcements. It serves nearby residents, particularly the elderly, and those beyond traditional speaker range. The app also functions as a prayer-time notification system, operating automatically after initial setup.
Pathan emphasised the community-driven approach: "We chose innovation over confrontation. Five hundred local residents registered within three days, and six Mumbai mosques now broadcast through the India-based server."
Users select their locality and nearest mosque during setup to receive location-specific alerts.
The shift responds to sound limits set by the Bombay High Court – 55 decibels daytime, 45 decibels nighttime – not a full loudspeaker ban. Mosques have replaced traditional speakers with smaller 10x15 box speakers that comply with regulations but have reduced audio range.
Mohammed Ali, co-founder of Online Azan, confirmed 250 mosques in Tamil Nadu already use their three-year-old platform. Mosque registration requires submission of an application form, address verification and the muezzin's Aadhaar identification.
Political reactions vary: Mumbai Congress general secretary Asif Farooqui praised the technological adaptation, noting "Prayer is important, not loudspeakers."
Conversely, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya claims his campaign has removed 1,500 unauthorised loudspeakers across the city.
The solution preserves religious observance while addressing urban noise concerns, with Pathan observing: "Even when speakers are off, worshippers stay connected to their mosque's call."
UNI AAA SS