As part of enforcement against noise pollution, state traffic police have seized 21 motorcycles fitted with modified silencers and booked riders under the Motor Vehicles Act. Offenders face fines of up to Rs 10,000 for causing excessive noise.
Prolonged exposure to traffic noise above 65 decibels is linked to hypertension, heart disease, stress, anxiety, mood disorders, and sleep disruption.
While modified motorcycles are a major concern, high-end cars too contribute significantly to noise pollution. Factors include powerful engines, modified exhausts, and tire noise, which rises with speed and acceleration. Many luxury vehicles even feature exhaust systems designed to amplify engine sound, further aggravating urban noise levels.
Authorities stress that no one is above the law, and owners of high-end vehicles violating noise norms must also face action. To strengthen enforcement, the introduction of technologies such as vehicle noise detection systems is being proposed.
