In a significant order aimed at curbing noise and visual pollution, the Jharkhand High Court has directed the state administration to impose a complete ban on the use of pressure horns, multi-tone horns, unauthorized flag rods, and additional vehicle lights that mimic emergency services.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad passed the order on July 28 while hearing a public interest litigation concerning noise pollution and vehicular violations across the state.
The court categorically prohibited the use of pressure and multi-tone horns, stating, “Pressure horns and multi-tone horns fitted in vehicles will not be allowed to run in the state of Jharkhand.”
It further directed that all vehicles using red or blue extra lights — which resemble those of official or emergency vehicles — must have them removed immediately. The court also took strong exception to the unauthorized use of flag rods and flags, regardless of their affiliation to political parties or religious groups, and ordered their immediate removal.
Emphasizing compliance with national regulations, the court instructed authorities to enforce the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, the Flag Code of India, and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules in letter and spirit.
The High Court also banned the use of loudspeakers without prior permission between 10 pm and 6 am, reinforcing existing noise pollution laws.
To ensure accountability, the court directed the Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta and the Member Secretary of the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board to file individual affidavits confirming compliance with these directives. These affidavits are to be submitted before the next hearing scheduled for August 11.
