If the state gets its way, then honk at your own peril. According to an affidavit filed in Bombay high court, the government is planning to increase the fine for honking
If the state gets its way, then honk at your own peril. According to an affidavit filed in Bombay high court, the government is planning to increase the fine for honking from the current Rs100 to Rs2,000.
The affidavit is in response to a PIL, filed by the city-based Awaaz Foundation, regarding non-implementation of noise pollution reduction measures. As per the affidavit, the proposal to increase the fine for excessive use of car horns was discussed in a meeting held by state chief secretary Johny Joseph to review the measures taken by various civic authorities and the police for reducing noise pollution.
The transport department has proposed to fix the fine for a first-time offender at Rs1,000, and Rs2,000 for a repeat offence. This would need an amendment to the Motor Vehicles Act, and a proposal has been sent to the Centre, the affidavit said. It added that since 2004, the traffic police have collected Rs26.8 lakh in fine for honking and registered 37,259 cases. Joseph has directed the home department to provide adequate number of decibel meters to the police.
Citizens can also get some respite during the upcoming Navratri and Diwali festivals. The affidavit stated that the police department had been directed to take suo motu action in the event of firecrackers and loudspeakers violating pollution norms.
As per noise rules, loudspeakers cannot be used after 10 pm, and firecrackers exceeding 125 decibels are banned.
The government would soon be coming out with Bombay Prohibition and Regulation of Fireworks Rules, 2008, which have provisions for dealing with noise pollution due to fire-crackers. The PIL will now be heard on November 28.
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