The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has embarked on a survey to identify and demarcate more silence zones across the twin-city. Spread across an area of 79.4 square km, the twin-city has only 103 silence zones which demarcated in accordance to a government resolution (GR) passed in 2018 related to the implementation of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
However, due to the rapid urbanisation, construction of mega developmental, residential and commercial projects in the twin-city, the number of silence zones are abysmally less than needed.
Moreover, the population of the twin-city has crossed the 12-lakh mark, which has also led to the rise in the number of schools, colleges, hospitals and religious places which has led to noise pollution levels crossing the permissible levels. The rules listed in the GR cover various aspects of noise pollution control, including restrictions on loud speakers and public address systems in demarcated silence zones. Special team has been formed to conduct a fresh survey of the twin-city aimed at demarcating silence zones following which signages will be installed accordingly.
The survey headed by MBMC’s environment department has started from the first week of March in coordination with the police administration and local social organizations, officials said. “The remedial steps which are being taken to prevent noise pollution will not only provide a peaceful atmosphere for citizens but also help maintain the balance the environment of the city.” said city engineer-Deepak Khambit.
Silence zones are designated areas, typically within 100 meters of hospitals, educational institutions and courts, where noise levels are restricted to maintain a peaceful environment. The police are responsible for enforcing noise regulations within silence zones, and those found to be violating the rules face penalties.
Meanwhile anti-noise activists have urged the MBMC to map the silence zones and upload them to the public domain, supported by helpline numbers which will enable citizens to file complaints.
