• UGI USER
  • Mar 27, 2024
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LOUDSPEAKER RAJ: SUFFERING NOISE POLLUTION IN SILENCE

Syllabus:

GS-II:

Issues related to the development and management of social sectors/services such as health, education, and human resources

Why in the news?

“Rising concerns over noise pollution and inadequate enforcement of regulations spotlighted in recent editorials and public discussions.”

source:toi

Understanding  Noise Pollution:

  • Noise pollution refers to excessive or disturbing noise that harms human health and the environment.
  • Common sources include transportation (traffic, aircraft), industries, neighborhood activities, and recreational events.
  • It leads to various health issues like hearing impairment, stress, and disrupts ecosystems.

About the Legal Framework and Enforcement:

  • The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules were framed by the Centre in 2000 to prescribe permissible noise levels and ambient air quality standards.
  • However, enforcement of these rules has been limited, with police often unable to take effective action due to lenient punishments and non-cognizable nature of offenses in some states.
  • Specific legislations in states like Odisha, Bihar, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh exist but lack stringent enforcement mechanisms.

About the Permissible Noise Levels and Regulations:

  • The permissible noise levels vary for different areas and times, with higher limits during the day and lower limits at night.
  • Silence Zones have stricter noise limits, emphasizing the need for maintaining quiet in designated areas.
  • Rules regarding the use of loudspeakers, especially during nighttime, are highlighted as essential for minimizing noise disturbances.
About The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

●   The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

●   It was later granted powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

●    The CPCB serves as both a field formation and a provider of technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

The principal functions of the CPCB, as outlined in the Water Act and the Air Act, include:

●   Promoting cleanliness of streams and wells by preventing, controlling, and abating water pollution in different areas of the States.

●   Improving the quality of air and preventing, controlling, or abating air pollution throughout the country.

Understanding the importance of measurements of Noise:

  • Measurements of noise are important to assess and regulate noise levels in various environments.
  • They help fulfill the World Health Organization’s guidelines, such as the recommendation for road traffic noise levels not exceeding 53 dB.
  • Excessive noise can have adverse effects on public health, leading to chronic physical impairment and sleep disturbances.
  • Chronic noise annoyance and sleep disturbance affect millions of people in Europe, particularly the elderly, pregnant women, and shift workers.
  • Noise-induced sleep disturbances can trigger functioning.physiological and psychological stress responses, impacting hormonal regulation and cardiovascular
  • Traffic noise exposure is linked to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders like elevated blood pressure, arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, and diabetes.
  • Long-term exposure to environmental noise contributes to thousands of new cases of ischemic heart disease and premature deaths annually in Europe.

Understanding The laws related to noise pollution in India :

Encompass several regulations and acts aimed at controlling and mitigating the adverse effects of excessive noise. Here are the key laws and regulations related to noise pollution in India:

  • Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000:
  • These rules were enacted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
  • They specify permissible noise levels for different areas, both residential and commercial, during daytime and nighttime.
  • The rules also define “Silence Zones” where stricter noise limits apply, such as areas near hospitals, educational institutions, and courts.
  • They regulate the use of loudspeakers and public address systems, including restrictions on their use during nighttime.
  • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981:
  • While primarily focused on air pollution, this act also addresses noise pollution and its sources.
  • Under this act, state pollution control boards and pollution control committees are responsible for regulating noise from industries and enforcing noise standards.
  • Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986:
  • These rules prescribe noise standards for various sources, including motor vehicles, air-conditioners, refrigerators, diesel generators, and certain construction equipment.
  • They establish permissible noise levels for these sources to limit environmental noise pollution.
  • State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees (SPCBs / PCCs):
  • These bodies at the state or union territory level are tasked with implementing and enforcing noise pollution regulations.
  • They monitor noise levels, issue permits, and take enforcement actions against violators to ensure compliance with noise standards.
  • Specific State Laws and Regulations:
  • Some states have enacted specific laws and regulations to address noise pollution comprehensively.
  • These laws may include additional provisions for controlling noise from specific sources, defining noise-sensitive zones, and specifying penalties for non-compliance.

Challenges in Noise Control during Festivals and Campaigns:

  • Festivals and community events often witness violations of noise control norms, leading to increased suffering for residents.
  • Election campaigning exacerbates noise pollution, posing challenges for enforcement authorities to maintain peace and order.

Health and Social Impacts:

  • The editorial discusses the adverse health effects of noise pollution, including hearing damage, palpitations, and tinnitus.
  • Beyond health, it reflects on the broader societal implications of excessive noise, such as breakdown of social etiquettes and a decline in civility.

Legal Action and Punishments:

  • Legal provisions exist for confiscation of equipment causing excessive noise, but their implementation remains inadequate.
  • The editorial calls for stricter punishments and proactive measures to deter violators and protect citizens’ rights to a peaceful environment.

Role of Authorities and Public Participation:

  • Authorities, including district magistrates and police commissioners, are tasked with enforcing noise pollution control measures.
  • Public participation is emphasized, urging citizens to file complaints and hold authorities accountable for taking necessary actions.

National Crime Records Bureau Data: 

  • Data from the National Crime Records Bureau reveals the extent of noise pollution cases, with Rajasthan reporting a significant number compared to other states.
  • The disparity in reporting cases highlights the need for consistent and comprehensive enforcement across all regions.

About Prevention of Noise Pollution:

  • Ban honking in sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, etc.
  • Install soundproof systems in commercial, hospital, and industrial buildings.
  • Control the volume of musical instruments.
  • Maintain dense tree cover to reduce noise pollution.
  • Avoid using explosives in environmentally sensitive areas like forests and mountains.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

The regulatory framework in India aims to manage and reduce noise pollution through a combination of standards, monitoring mechanisms, enforcement actions, and public awareness campaigns. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining acceptable noise levels to safeguard public health and the environment.

 

Source: Indian Express

Mains Practice Question:

“Discuss the challenges and legal frameworks related to noise pollution control in India, highlighting the roles of enforcement authorities and state regulations. Evaluate the effectiveness of existing measures and propose suggestions for improving noise pollution management in the country.”