Patna High Court goes hard on noise pollution
Expressing concern over road accidents and public inconvenience caused by pressure horns, the court directed police officials to issue challans (fines) under Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
The Patna High Court has taken a firm stance against the growing issue of noise pollution in Bihar, issuing a series of directives across the state. The court, led by Justice Rajiv Roy, addressed the unchecked use of DJs, loudspeakers, and pressure horns, which have caused significant disruptions and health hazards. The order, issued on August 14, 2026, mandates strict adherence to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
District Magistrates, Superintendents of Police, Sub-Divisional Officers, and Station House Officers have been instructed to enforce these rules diligently. The court emphasized that loudspeakers should not be used after 9:55 p.m., and DJs and loudspeaker owners must operate at lower decibel levels during the day. Pressure horns are banned near hospitals and schools, and violators will face fines.
The court also directed the installation of 'Silence Zones' signboards and the registration of operators with the local Sub-Divisional Officer. The Bihar State Pollution Control Board has been tasked with installing sound monitoring systems in public places. The court urged the categorization of cities into industrial, commercial, residential, and silence zones, urging a comprehensive ban on pressure horns.
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