Bhubaneswar: As part of efforts to check noise pollution in the capital city, the Commissionerate Police has launched an intensive drive against vehicles using excessively loud and multi-toned horns across Bhubaneswar.
After several warnings issued earlier failed to check the misuse of horns by buses, trucks and other vehicles, the police launched a fresh crackdown against horns causing unusually harsh noise.
Sources said police teams conducted checks at several major intersections and busy streets of the city on Thursday. Following thorough inspection, the police imposed fine on offenders using unusually loud horns.
According to a senior police official, a fine of Rs 500 can be imposed for violating the rules under the Odisha Urban Police Act. Similarly, habitual offenders will face strict action, including possible cancellation of licenses. The government is also considering measures to blacklist habitual violators to curb persistent noise pollution.
Urging people to adhere to the rules and remove multi-toned horns from their vehicles, he said hefty penalties will be imposed on the defaulters.
As per rule 119 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, no motor vehicle should be fitted with multi-toned pressure horns causing unduly harsh and alarming noise. The Indian Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 Section 52 also bars alteration in horns. Vehicles causing noise pollution can attract a fine up to Rs 10,000 as per the amended MV Act.