Mumbai Traffic Police Initiative - Maintain ‘No Honking Day’ On 9th & 16th August
To curb noise pollution, Mumbai Traffic Police has taken a prescient step and introduced the concept of ‘No Honking Day’. It will be observed on two designated days, 9 and 16 August, as declared by the City Traffic Police. Motorists are requested to refrain from unnecessary honking to create a quieter and healthier environment.
Abiding with noise emission standards, the Traffic Control Branch has directed vehicle owners to adhere to Rule Nos. 119 and 120 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules of 1989 on horns and silencers respectively. Motorists can contribute significantly to noise reduction by following these regulations.
The Mumbai Traffic Police highlights that unnecessary honking will result in strict actions under section 194 (F) of the MV Act. Also, modified silencers or exhaust pipes that violate norms outlined in section 198 of the M.V. Act will have to pay a penalty. These measures emphasise the seriousness of curbing noise pollution in the city.
Mumbai traffic police have issued an order that states motorists are advised to ensure that the horns and silencers of their vehicles are as per the guidelines under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules of 1989. Except for emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire brigades, the Traffic Control Branch appealed to all drivers and riders in Mumbai not to honk their vehicle horns on August 9 and 16, and beyond. This collective effort will contribute to a quiet urban environment that benefits everyone.
A no-honking drive that was held on June 14 demonstrated positive outcomes. 2,116 motorists were found in violation of the initiative despite awareness being created through press releases, digital hoardings, VMS boards and social media platforms,
Corner meetings were organized with taxi, auto, and BEST bus drivers to educate them about the adverse health effects of noise pollution. The police will continue to conduct similar campaigns in the future.
Research conducted by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) noted that traffic noise is one of the prime causes of noise pollution. Supreme Court and High Courts have laid out guidelines and regulations on decibel levels and horn usage in residential and silence zones. Hospitals, courts, religious places, and educational institutions come under the Silence zone areas. The sound level above 40 decibels is not permitted at night in these regions.
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