The Allahabad High Court on Monday directed the Uttar Pradesh government to formally classify and notify industrial, commercial, residential, and silence zones across the state within three months to control noise pollution.
A Lucknow bench comprising Justice Alok Mathur and Justice Amitabh Kumar Rai issued the directions while presiding over a suo motu petition regarding acoustic pollution. The judges observed that demarcating specific zones is essential to ensure adherence to the sound thresholds prescribed under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
Crackdown On Unauthorized Sirens And Pressure Horns
Alongside the zoning mandate, the court instructed the state administration to initiate steps to halt the sale, installation, and operation of prohibited pressure horns and illegal hooters.
Expressing concern over the widespread use of sirens on private vehicles, the bench underscored that such equipment must strictly be limited to authorized government vehicles and emergency services, such as ambulances, in accordance with regulatory norms.
Enforcement Action And Compliance Report
The court ordered authorities to take strict action against motorists who install or use unauthorized hooters on private vehicles.
The state government was further directed to submit an action-taken report detailing the enforcement measures implemented in compliance with the court’s instructions.
The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on January 15, 2027.
