New Silent Zones Coming to Gautam Budh Nagar
Silent zones will soon be established in Gautam Budh Nagar, similar to those in Pune and Bangalore. In these areas, playing horns will be strictly prohibited. The Commissionerate Police is working with the community to reduce noise levels both day and night across the district.
Efforts to Improve Traffic System
The Gautam Budh Nagar Commissionerate Police is focusing on enhancing the traffic system in the district. One of their main goals is to lower road accident rates and decrease the excessive noise generated by vehicles. Currently, many drivers are not adhering to noise regulations, leading to disturbances in designated silent zones.
Experts have pointed out that a lack of traffic awareness contributes to this issue. To address this, the police are launching initiatives aimed at improving public understanding of traffic rules.
Noise Levels: What’s Acceptable?
According to the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, the acceptable noise levels are 40 decibels at night and 50 decibels during the day. However, reports indicate that noise levels in some silent zones have reached around 70 decibels. This is particularly evident near hospitals like Fortis in Noida Sector 62 and Max Hospital in Sector 19.
Reasons for Excessive Noise
The high noise levels in these areas can be attributed to nearby metro stations, heavy traffic, and congested markets. The pollution department has noted that many vehicles are not following traffic rules, which contributes significantly to the noise pollution. Collaborative campaigns with traffic police and the transport department are being conducted to tackle this issue.
Noise Zones Explained
The district is divided into four noise zones, each with its own acceptable noise limits:
– **Business Zone:** 55 dB (day) / 65 dB (night)
– **Residential Zone:** 45 dB (day) / 55 dB (night)
– **Silent Zone:** 40 dB (day) / 50 dB (night)
– **Industrial Zone:** 70 dB (day) / 75 dB (night)
Identifying Silent Zones
Silent zones will include locations such as government and private hospitals, schools and universities, residential societies, parks, meditation centers, and places of worship. This initiative aims to create more peaceful environments for residents and visitors.
Awareness and Enforcement
As part of the initiative, efforts will be made to educate the public about the importance of reducing unnecessary horn use. Signage will be placed to remind drivers of the rules, and strict action will be taken against those who violate them, according to DCP Traffic Lakhan Singh Yadav.
Health Risks of Noise Pollution
Prolonged exposure to noise pollution above recommended levels can lead to temporary deafness and other health issues such as irritation and impaired hearing, warns Dr. Dimple Gupta, an ENT surgeon at the District Joint Hospital.