NGT Directs Maharashtra Govt, DGP To Enforce Noise Rules In Silence Zones

The National Green Tribunal’s Western Zone Bench has directed the Maharashtra government and the Director General of Police to ensure strict compliance with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, in all silence zones across the state, including Pune city and Pimpri-Chinchwad, officials said.

The bench also directed the authorities to maintain a record of the action taken under the rules and produce it before the tribunal whenever directed to do so.

The NGT Bench issued the directions in response to a petition filed by Pune resident Dr Kalyani Mandke.

Applicant Seeks Strict Enforcement Of Noise Rules In Silence Zones

The applicant’s lawyer argued before the bench that the Noise Pollution Rules clearly prohibit the use of music, sound amplifiers, loudspeakers and public address systems in silence zones and provide for penalties for violations.

The applicant had submitted before the tribunal, “Therefore, an order may be passed to the effect that this Rule be enforced by the Director General of Police and Maharashtra in the State of Maharashtra.”

The NGT bench granted Anirudha Kulkarni, the lawyer representing the state government, four weeks to file an affidavit.

The applicant’s lawyer also drew the tribunal’s attention to the provisions applicable to violations in silence zones.

The bench passed its latest order on September 10, directing strict compliance with the rules.