DPCC issues SOP to tackle noise pollution; action within 7 days

The SOP reiterates environmental compensation for noise violations as per the June 25, 2021 directive: ₹10,000 fine for night-time loudspeakers; ₹10,000 to ₹1 lakh for generator-set violations; ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 fines for bursting firecrackers beyond the prescribed time in various zones.

After receipt of the noise monitoring report by the cell, if the report is found to be above the prescribed limit, it shall forward detailed monitoring and inspection reports along with enforcement recommendations to the designated authorities within seven days, with a copy to the complainant.

For noise monitoring, the SOP requires recording the background noise level of the surrounding area to compare with the actual noise-generating sources.

The SOP states that a letter will be sent to the complainant informing them about the test results.

The SOP requires the sub-divisional magistrate and local police to coordinate action to seize the noise-generating equipment.

If noise levels are found to exceed the prescribed limits, a detailed monitoring and inspection report, along with enforcement recommendations, must be forwarded to the departments concerned within seven days.

The DPCC announced a time-bound standard operating procedure to streamline action on noise pollution complaints, mandating that all grievances be logged in a complaint register and verified through on-ground inspections by its air laboratory within three days of the complaint.

The article notes that DPCC reiterated environmental compensation for noise pollution will be imposed as per a direction dated June 25, 2021. The direction specifies penalties including ₹10,000 for playing loudspeakers at night or without permission, ₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000 for generator-set violations depending on DG size, and ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 fines for bursting firecrackers beyond prescribed times in residential, commercial, and silence zones.