Noklak DC has ordered strict enforcement of noise pollution rules, imposing fines, equipment seizure and sealing for violations involving loudspeakers, DG sets, construction equipment and firecrackers.
DIMAPUR — Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, P Mono Khiamniungan, has issued an order for the strict enforcement of noise pollution regulations to safeguard public health and maintain peace and tranquillity in the district.
According to a DIPR report, the order prescribes fines and penalties for violations and calls for immediate compliance by the general public, event organisers, institutions and businesses.
The order stated that prior written permission from the deputy commissioner is mandatory for the use of loudspeakers and public address systems.
The use of loudspeakers between 10 pm and 6 am, particularly in areas notified as silence zones by the state government, is strictly prohibited. Violators will be fined INR 10,000, and the equipment will be seized.
For diesel generator (DG) sets, the order mandates compliance with the prescribed noise standards under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Violations will attract the following penalties: DG sets up to 62.5 KVA (INR 10,000 fine and sealing of the DG set), DG sets between 62.5 KVA and 1000 KVA (INR 25,000 fine and sealing of the DG set), and DG sets above 1000 KVA (INR 1 lakh fine and sealing of the DG set.)
The order further prohibited the operation of sound-emitting construction equipment in residential areas and silence zones between 10 pm and 6 am. Violators will face a fine of INR 50,000 along with seizure or sealing of the equipment.
The deputy commissioner also reiterated restrictions on the bursting of firecrackers. Firecrackers are strictly prohibited in silence zones and between 10 pm and 6 am. The permitted timings, as directed by the Supreme Court, are: Diwali (8 pm to 10 pm), Gurpurab (4 am to 5 am and 9 pm to 10 pm), and Christmas and New Year (11:55 pm to 12:30 am).
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Penalties for violating the firecracker restrictions include fines ranging from INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 for individuals and households, INR 10,000 to INR 20,000 for event organisers, and INR 20,000 to INR 1 lakh for banquet halls and open grounds, depending on the number of repeat offences. Sealing of the premises may also be ordered where applicable.
The order stated that repeated violations would result in the permanent withdrawal of permission to operate the equipment or premises, in addition to any other action permissible under law.
The deputy commissioner directed the police and all designated law enforcement authorities to maintain strict vigil and ensure immediate enforcement of the prescribed penalties against violators.