Pune Traffic Police Launch Major Crackdown on Noise Pollution
In a decisive move to combat rising noise pollution, the Pune traffic police have initiated a stringent week-long action against motorcyclists using illegal modified silencers and horns. This special drive has resulted in action against 2,822 riders, with authorities seizing and removing 900 illegally fitted silencers that were significantly disturbing the city's peace and tranquility.
Strict Enforcement and Fines Imposed
Additional Commissioner of Police Manoj Patil emphasized the severity of the issue, stating that fines exceeding Rs 30 lakh have been collected during the crackdown. The violations were primarily reported in key areas including Hadapsar, Koregaon Park, Kharadi, the Airport, Satara Road, Deccan, Kothrud, Warje, and Sinhagad Road. For first-time offenders, a fine of Rs 1,000 is imposed, escalating to Rs 2,000 for repeat violations.
Destruction of Seized Silencers
To ensure that the seized contraptions are not reused, the traffic police employed a bulldozer to crush the 900 modified silencers on the premises of the traffic police headquarters in Yerawada. This symbolic destruction underscores the authorities' commitment to eliminating the menace of noisy motorcycles, which have been a source of numerous complaints from residents, particularly near examination halls and for senior citizens.
Heightened Action on World Hearing Day
The drive was intensified on the occasion of World Hearing Day on March 3, highlighting the health risks associated with excessive noise. Patil noted that the police have been receiving innumerable complaints about these noisy vehicles, prompting this heightened enforcement effort.
Legal Action Against Sellers and Installers
In addition to targeting riders, the police have registered cases under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against shopkeepers involved in selling and installing illegal silencers. Teams are set to issue notices to garages and vendors for such installations, with strict legal action promised against anyone found using modified or illegal silencers in the future.
Appeal to Motorists and Future Plans
Authorities have appealed to all motorists to adhere to traffic rules and avoid modifications that contribute to noise pollution. The drive is expected to be intensified in the coming days as part of ongoing efforts to maintain public order and safety in Pune.
