Mohali District Commissioner takes bold steps, assembles High-Level Panel to tackle noise pollution

In response to the persistent issue of noise pollution in Mohali, Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain has taken a proactive step by forming a 13-member committee. The move comes after authorities' apparent failure to address the problem, as noted by the Punjab and Haryana High Court's order from July 2019. The committee, led by ADC (General), includes key officials such as SSP, SP Rural, municipal commissioner, and representatives from health, agriculture, and pollution control sectors.

Strict measures imposed by Deputy Commissioner

As per the directive, no loudspeakers or public address systems are permitted without written permission, even during the daytime. The committee will rigorously enforce the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, restricting the use of loudspeakers, musical instruments, and sound amplifiers between 10 pm to 6 am, except in specific venues. Exemptions are granted during cultural or religious events for a limited duration.

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Ongoing monitoring and enforcement

Local teams will monitor public and private spaces, religious institutions, and cultural venues to ensure compliance with noise control rules. The deputy commissioner has outlined specific measures for police stations to regularly check noise pollution during early morning hours. Necessary permissions for loudspeaker use will be monitored, and violations will be reported daily by the Punjab Pollution Control Board.

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The police will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, including monitoring noise levels, penalizing violations under established rules, and preventing honking in designated silence zones. Additionally, the proper fitting of silencers on motorcycles and the prohibition of pressure horns will be strictly enforced to curb noise pollution. The deputy commissioner plans to conduct monthly review meetings to assess the effectiveness of these measures.