High court issues notices over noisy horns, silencers

The High Court of Karnataka on Friday ordered issuance of notice to the state government, transport department and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board in a PIL seeking directions to issue certificates to vehicle owners who comply with noise level standards.

The petitioner, Mohan Krishnan H, a resident of Hessaraghatta Main Road, has sought directions to also levy heavy fine of not less than Rs 5,000 on those who do not have certificates.

He has sought directions to ban all kinds of defective horns and silencers. He has contended that increase in noise level has become a serious concern not only to him and his neighbours, but also to the citizens of Bengaluru.

Vehicle movement and honking are the major contributors for noise pollution in the city and it was taking away peace and silence even in residential areas/silent zones. Aggrieved by the noise caused during the day and night, the petitioner has filed a PIL in the court. A division bench comprising Chief Justice S K Mukherjee and Justice R B Budihal ordered notice and adjourned the hearing.