Kohima Deputy Commissioner enforces strict noise pollution rules with fines, loudspeaker limits and DG set norms across district
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DIMAPUR — The Deputy Commissioner of Kohima has issued a comprehensive order enforcing strict regulations on noise pollution across the district, in accordance with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and directives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
According to a DIPR report, the order categorises areas into industrial, commercial, residential and silence zones, prescribing maximum permissible noise limits measured in dB (A) Leq.
Industrial areas have been capped at 75 dB during the day and 70 dB at night, while commercial areas are limited to 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night.
Residential zones are restricted to 55 dB in the daytime and 45 dB at night.
Silence zones, which include areas within 100 meters of hospitals, schools and courts, have stricter limits of 50 dB during the day and 40 dB at night.
Imposing restrictions on the use of loudspeakers and public address systems, the order stated that the use of such devices, including drums and amplifiers, is strictly prohibited between 10 pm and 6 am, except within closed auditoriums where sound does not escape.
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It further directed that all diesel generator (DG) sets must be fitted with acoustic enclosures.
The order also prohibits the bursting of firecrackers between 10 pm and 6 am, allowing only “green crackers” during designated festivals.
Holding venue owners accountable, the deputy commissioner stated that owners of marriage halls, hotels, community centres and open grounds will be jointly responsible for any violations occurring on their premises.
They have also been directed to ensure that event organisers obtain valid noise permits from the district administration before using any sound systems.
The order provides for penalties and environmental compensation for violations as per NGT-approved norms.
Use of loudspeakers or public address systems in violation of the rules will attract a fine of INR 10,000 along with confiscation of equipment. DG set violations may incur penalties ranging from INR 10,000 to 25,000, while large industrial DG sets may attract fines up to INR 1 lakh, along with sealing of the equipment.
Use of construction equipment beyond permissible limits will invite a fine of INR 50,000 and seizure of machinery.
Repeat violations at fixed premises may lead to penalties ranging from INR 40,000 to INR 1 lakh, along with sealing of the premises.
Administrative officers and sub-divisional police officers of respective circles have been designated as enforcing authorities.
They have been empowered to seize equipment, seal premises and recover compensation from violators.
The order comes into force with immediate effect, the report added.