JOIN USLoud horns are illegal, but are widely available
Concerned over noise pollution, the transport department has just launched a drive against shrill horns and defective silencers.
But shops across the city are selling horns whose loudness exceeds permissible limits, Metrolife found.
Variety galore
The owner of Lanca Sa, Outer Ring Road, says, "From bird sounds to train sounds, we have a variety of 10 sounds here. We also have loud truck horns which will make you stand out in the crowd."
He also offered to send photographs and details on WhatsApp. "Since the sound level can't be gauged over the phone, please drop by with your vehicle," he says.
Battery concern
At First Choice, Hosur Road, Riyaz has a word of advice. "We can instal loud horns for bikes like the windtone horns by Skoda. But loud ones used by trucks are not advisable for bikes as they drain out the battery faster."
A musical ride
Apart from startling horns, some buy musical horns. These are discouraged under the law as they distract other motorists.
Shahid from Metro Moto Ride, Jayanagar 4th T Block, says double horns are popular, as are melody-maker ones.
He is aware installing loud horns is not permitted under the Motor Vehicles Act.
"You could get into trouble with the police for altering the company horn," he cautions.
Who uses them most?
Buses and lorries use illegal horns the most, according to transport officials. "Many bikes have defective silencers and some people tweak their horns. All offenders will be caught and reprimanded," says B Dayananda, Commissioner, RTO.
"Though the Bengaluru Traffic Police's Public Eye platform can be used by citizens to report traffic offences, screeching horns are an audible offence. Taking photographs, in this case, will not help. There needs to be a traffic official on the spot for such a complaint to be taken ahead," says Dayananda.
According to the Motor Vehicles Act, Section 177, the fine for shrill horns is Rs 100 for first offence and can be up to Rs 300 for subsequent offence.