(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
Representational Photo

Noise pollution in Srinagar is nothing new. For years, the city has lived with the hubbub of traffic and daily commotion. But today, what was once a background nuisance has escalated to alarming levels, threatening both health and peace, particularly near hospitals, schools, and colleges.

Not long ago, the State Pollution Control Board recorded noise levels above WHO limits at several locations. Near SMHS Hospital, the main gate registered 81 dB, while near the casualty opposite the Doctors' Hostel, it was 61 dB. At SKIMS, the city's only tertiary care hospital, the main entrance hit 75 dB, and near the casualty area, 61 dB. To put it in perspective, WHO warns that prolonged exposure above 60 dB can cause irreversible hearing loss, heart issues, sleep disruption, and cognitive delays in children.

Much of this rising noise comes from an unlikely source: official vehicles and ambulances using sirens without genuine emergencies. Advocate Aqib

Ahad recently described it perfectly in his Kashmir Observer column:“What was meant to alert citizens during real emergencies has now become a symbol of status and authority, misused without restraint.” This misuse not only disturbs the public but also erodes trust in the urgency of real emergencies.
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Legally, such actions are unjustifiable. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, allow sirens and horns only for genuine emergencies, and Article 21 guarantees every citizen a peaceful environment. The Supreme Court has also affirmed that noise above permissible levels violates fundamental rights.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has repeatedly warned that continuous exposure to high decibel levels leads to psychological distress, hearing loss, and reduced productivity. There is an urgent need to curb unnecessary honking and siren use. The Transport Department and Traffic Police must act-declaring hospitals, schools and residential areas as“No Honking Zones”, enforcing penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act, and running awareness campaigns for motorists.

Noise pollution is not limited to streets. The NGT has directed inspections of places of worship where loudspeakers exceed permissible levels, highlighting that no religion permits its followers to become a source of environmental harm and public nuisance.

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