Authorities across Uttar Pradesh are intensifying efforts to combat noise pollution stemming from vehicles equipped with modified silencers, pressure horns, and hooters. This intensified drive follows directives from the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, which has taken a stern view of the rising noise levels disrupting public peace. Recent enforcement actions in Lucknow have seen traffic and transport departments conducting joint operations, resulting in the challaning and seizure of numerous vehicles found to be in violation of noise emission norms.
High Court’s Scrutiny Drives Enforcement Actions
The Allahabad High Court, through its Lucknow bench, has been actively monitoring the issue of noise pollution from vehicles. In response to public interest litigation and suo motu cognizance taken by the court, judicial directives have been issued for stringent action against the manufacture, sale, and use of illegal noise-amplifying devices on vehicles. The court has repeatedly expressed concern over the pervasive noise, particularly from modified silencers on motorcycles, which can be heard from significant distances, causing discomfort to residents, the elderly, and children. Judicial pronouncements have called for detailed explanations from senior state officials, including the Director General of Police and the Transport Commissioner, regarding the measures taken over the years to curb this menace.
Legal Framework and Penalties Under Motor Vehicles Act
The crackdown is primarily based on provisions within the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Section 190(2) of the Act penalizes individuals causing air and noise pollution, with fines up to ₹10,000 and potential imprisonment of up to six months for using modified silencers or pressure horns that exceed permissible decibel limits, typically around 80 decibels. Furthermore, Section 182A(3) imposes penalties of up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of up to ₹1 lakh on garages, workshops, and spare parts dealers found selling or installing such illegal equipment. Vehicle owners making unauthorized modifications face fines of ₹5,000 under Section 182A(4), with additional penalties of ₹10,000 under Section 190(2) for causing noise pollution. In some instances, vehicles found with modified silencers may face suspension of their Registration Certificate (RC), and driving licenses can also be suspended for specified periods.
On-Ground Enforcement and Awareness Campaigns
In Lucknow, a recent two-day drive saw 33 vehicles challaned and nine seized for violations related to modified silencers, hooters, and multi-toned horns. The enforcement teams, comprising transport department officials and traffic police, are intensifying checks at various locations. Beyond punitive actions, authorities are also engaging in public awareness initiatives. Spare parts shop owners and mechanics are being served notices and informed about legal provisions, with meetings organized to sensitize them against selling or fitting illegal accessories. Hoardings are being installed, and pamphlets distributed to educate vehicle owners and the public about the rules and the detrimental effects of noise pollution.
Most of the vehicles penalized during these drives have been Bullet motorcycles, notorious for their loud exhaust notes due to modified silencers. The authorities have emphasized that the enforcement action will continue, alongside efforts to ensure that even foreign-made vehicles comply with Indian noise standards. The initiative aims not only to reduce noise pollution but also to enhance road safety by minimizing distractions and discomfort caused by excessive vehicle noise.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
