The Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, P. Mono Khiamniungan, has issued an order directing the strict enforcement of noise pollution regulations to protect public health and maintain peace and tranquillity in the district.
The notification prescribes fines and penalties for violations and calls for immediate compliance by the general public, event organisers, institutions and businesses.
According to the order, prior written permission from the Deputy Commissioner is mandatory for the use of loudspeakers and public address systems. The use of loudspeakers between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, particularly in notified silence zones, is strictly prohibited. Violators will be fined Rs 10,000 and the equipment will be seized.
Diesel generator (DG) sets must comply with the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Violations will attract fines of Rs 10,000 for DG sets up to 62.5 KVA, Rs 25,000 for units between 62.5 and 1,000 KVA, and Rs 1,00,000 for those above 1,000 KVA. All non-compliant DG sets will be sealed.
The operation of sound-emitting construction equipment between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am in residential areas and silence zones is also prohibited. Violators will be fined Rs 50,000 and the equipment will be seized or sealed.
The order further prohibits the bursting of firecrackers in silence zones and during night hours, with only the timings prescribed by the Supreme Court permitted during Diwali, Gurpurab, Christmas and New Year.
Individuals violating the firecracker rules will face fines ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, while event organisers may be fined between Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000. Banquet halls and open grounds may face penalties of Rs 2,000 to Rs 1,00,000 depending on the nature and frequency of the offence, with repeated violations liable to result in the sealing of premises and permanent withdrawal of permission to operate.
The Deputy Commissioner has directed the police and all designated law enforcement agencies to maintain strict vigilance and take immediate action against violators.
