Carnival in Sergipe: Public Prosecutor recommends prohibition of 'paredões' and guides oversight of 'mela-mela' in Neópolis
The Public Prosecutor of Sergipe recommended a total ban on high-power sound equipment known as 'paredões' during the Carnival in Neópolis to combat noise pollution and protect local cultural traditions.
The Public Prosecutor's Office of Sergipe has mandated a prohibition on the use of high-power sound systems, commonly referred to as 'paredões', during the upcoming Carnival festivities in the city of Neópolis. This measure aims to address concerns over noise pollution and to ensure the preservation of public tranquility, as well as to protect local cultural traditions, especially the performances of traditional bands, which are a hallmark of the carnival in the region.
In addition to addressing the sound equipment, the recommendations also establish guidelines for the practice known as 'mela-mela', a carnival tradition involving participants throwing flour and coloring agents at one another. The Public Prosecutor stressed the importance of ensuring that only safe materials, such as wheat flour and talcum powder, are used, explicitly prohibiting any chemical substances that might pose health risks to revelers. This approach seeks to maintain the historical aspects of the festival while safeguarding the well-being of all participants.
The local law enforcement agencies, including the Military and Civil Police, have been informed about these recommendations and are tasked with enforcing the new regulations to ensure compliance. The emphasis on a safe and enjoyable Carnival aligns with the government's commitment to cultural preservation and public safety, reflecting the evolving challenges faced by traditional festivals in a modern context.