'Silent Zones' remain only on papers
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Maisnam Karnajit

Imphal, June 02 2013: The prohibition imposed on producing loud noises in Imphal City and Greater Imphal areas, which have been notified as "Silent Zones", has remained only on the papers without actually being enforced.

On the other hand, public seem to be unaware of the symbols showing prohibition on use of gas horns, and keep on honking in the areas notified as "Silent Zones" .

"No Horn" symbols have been put up by Manipur Pollution Control Board near important places under Imphal Municipal Council like Raj Bhavan, Chief Minister's Bungalow, High Court Complex, Assembly Complex, Secretariat and other important government establishments including educational institutions.

However, none seem to care two hoots about these symbols.

An official of Manipur Pollution Control Board told Heuiyen Lanpao that "No Horn" symbols have been put up at 35 places in Imphal area as a first step towards imparting awareness to the general public.

However, no concrete action has been taken up in this regard.

The district authorities, district police and Transport Department are the enforcing agencies and they have been intimated to take up necessary measures to enforce "Silent Zones", he noted.

'Silent Zones' remain only on papers

As per the notification of the government, Silent Zones include areas in and around 100 metres surrounding the public and semi-public places such as government offices, educational institutions, camps of Assam Rifles and Manipur Rifles, parks, zoological and botanical gardens, universities and hospitals.

Use of gas horns is strictly prohibited along the road stretch from Keishampat to Raj Bhavan Gate, Raj Bhavan to Sanjenthong passing through Palace Compound, Moirangkhom Kalimai Temple Gate to Imphal Head Post Office, Raj Bhavan to PWD Office and Thong Nambonbi to Western Kangla Gate.

The noise level at places notified as Silent Zones should not exceed 50 decibels during day time and 40 decibels during night time.

In case of industrial areas, the noise level shall not exceed 75 decibels during day and 70 decibels during night.

In commercial areas, the noise level should be below 65 decibels during day and 55 decibels during night, while in residential areas, the noise level should be below 55 decibels during day and 45 decibels during night.

For measuring the noise level, the day time is calculated from 6 am to 10 pm while the night time from 10 pm to 6 am.

Use of loud speakers is also prohibited in Silent Zones without the permission of the authorities concerned.

Musical concerts and other public meetings using loud speakers should be conducted only inside auditoriums and halls.

The government order further said that any person who defies the rules would be charged for violation of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.Use of amplifiers, trumpets and crackers are also prohibited in silent zones.