Chhattisgarh Government Initiates Process to Amend Noise Control Legislation
The Chhattisgarh government has officially informed the High Court that it has established a high-level draft committee and commenced comprehensive consultations to amend the Kolahal Niyantran Adhiniyam, 1985. This legislative initiative is a crucial part of the state's broader efforts to tackle the persistent issue of noise pollution across urban and rural areas.
High Court Monitors Progress, Sets Deadline for Report
Hearing a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the High Court has directed the state government to submit a detailed progress report by May 6. This deadline coincides with the state's ongoing efforts to finalize the proposed amendments to the nearly four-decade-old noise control act.
A division bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, acknowledged the government's proactive steps. The bench noted that the state has constituted a specialized draft committee with a clear mandate to examine all relevant suggestions and prepare draft amendments for the Act.
Extensive Consultative Process Underway
The formation of the committee follows an extensive, high-level consultative process that has involved key administrative and law enforcement officials from across the state. This process includes inputs from:
- Divisional Commissioners
- Inspectors General of Police
- District Collectors
- Superintendents of Police
This multi-stakeholder approach aims to ensure that the amended legislation is robust, enforceable, and addresses ground-level challenges related to noise pollution control.
Next Steps and Judicial Oversight
The High Court has now specifically sought a comprehensive progress report from the Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh before the next scheduled date of hearing. This judicial oversight is intended to maintain momentum and accountability in the amendment process, ensuring that the state's commitment to reducing noise pollution translates into concrete legislative action.
The move to revise the 1985 Act reflects growing public and judicial concern over environmental health and urban livability, positioning Chhattisgarh at the forefront of regulatory updates in this domain.
