DGCA to train pilots to curb noise pollution

Have you been spending sleepless nights due to loud airplane noise? Here’s some relief. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will soon train pilots in new landing techniques, so that noise pollution could be minimised.

Appearing for DGCA, solicitor general (SG) Gopal Subramaniam told a division bench of the Delhi high court on Wednesday, “We are trying all measures to curb noise pollution in the vicinity of [Indira Gandhi International or IGI] airport, so that residents can feel at ease.”

“Basket measures are being followed by us, so that residents’
rights are not infringed upon,” SG said.

The court was hearing a plea of Vasant Kunj residents seeking night curfew on landing of aircraft.

SG said, “Night curfew will be relaxed only when aircraft companies make sure they follow minimum standards, so that noise level can be maintained as per the international standard. We are preparing a blueprint for curbing noise pollution keeping in mind global parameters and once the mechanism is in place, things will certainly change.”

Satisfied, court said, “It seems DGCA and other authorities have done bilateral planning and it is expected that these measures benefit citizens and they can sleep at night,” and posted the matter for further hearing on October 20.