Receiving flak, cops plan training camp to help curb noise pollution

After the Bombay High Court came down heavily on Mumbai Police for violating noise pollution norms during the Mahim Dargah fair last year, the police have decided to get themselves better equipped for tackling issues related to noise pollution.

According to a senior police officer, a training has been organised on April 26, the day which is also observed as the International Noise Awareness Day. "There is no doubt that our staff is not properly trained. Hence, it was decided to seek the help of an expert, and Sumaira Abdulali, Convenor of Awaaz Foundation, was invited for a detailed discussion," said the officer.

Meanwhile, Abdulali said that she is happy to help the Mumbai Police not only in understanding the nitty-gritties of the Noise Pollution Act, but also to share details of her own experiences that can help the police tackle the issue in a better way. "I am looking forward to a long-term partnership with the department. Together we not only can spread awareness regarding the harmful effects of noise pollution, but also can strengthen the enforcement," she said.

The activist added that she will propose that the noise pollution awareness camp should be conducted for every police station in Mumbai as well as for the traffic department.