Noise pollution curbed in Delhi

The National Green Tribunal in Delhi has tightened its noise pollution laws, making it more difficult than ever to get a Pollution Under Check (PUC) certificate.

Indeed, among increasing fears in the area that noise pollution is affecting inhabitants' quality of life; the authorities have had no choice but to become stricter, the Times of India reports.

Expert member G K Pandey and acting chairperson Justice A S Naidu have said "noise pollution not only causes annoyance but also leads to adverse health impacts like rise of blood pressure, hearing impairment, neurological disorders".

In addition, it has been reported that noise pollution can cause insomnia, a problem that can cause depression.

Consequently, the authorities in Delhi have inflicted harsher penalties on those who refuse to comply with noise pollution laws.

There is now a phone number that is open all hours where people can be immediately connected with Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) should they be disturbed by noise past the curfew time.

Generator sets of 5KVA and above will banned in residential areas from 10pm to 6am.

In terms of industrial areas, the DPCC will draw up an action plan which will enforce

monitoring and surveillance systems in places like hospitals to be sure that noise won't be played past a certain level.

The transport department will also implement some changes.

Pressure horns will have a certain volume that they are allowed to reach, and after that, vehicles with such a horn will be prohibited from entering the city.

Delhi Police will have the power to confiscate polluting articles following complaints from the call centre

In addition, the education department will now incorporate noise pollution as part of their lessons to ensure that children are aware of the law as well as the risks.