Noise level at 76 dbs, 10 points above limit
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 06 2012: On account of the ever multiplying number of vehicles on the roads of Imphal, the noise level in the State capital has reached 76 decibels.

Out of the many types of vehicles criss-crossing the roads of Imphal everyday, diesel auto-rickshaws have earned the distinction of being the noisiest.

Talking with The Sangai Express, one official of the Manipur Pollution Control Board said that noise level at Imphal is measured every month near Secretariat, Kanglapat and Keishampat.

Noise level recorded in the commercial area of Imphal is 76 dbs.

This figure exceeds the permissible limit by 10 dbs.

As a rule, all kinds of automobiles and their noise levels are checked by an agency authorised by the Government of India before they are given certificates for sale in markets.

Even though the diesel auto-rickshaws plying on the roads of Imphal were given necessary certificates for sale, there must be a limit to their number based on the noise level produced by diesel auto-rickshaws collectively.

It is not permissible to allow their numbers to rise freely without any limit or restriction.

As per a report published by the MPCB, an intimation has been sent to Transport Department to control the ever-increasing number of diesel auto-rickshaws.

According to the Manager of Manipur Motors which is the authorised dealer of Bajaj Auto in Manipur, around 2500 RE-Diesel Mega Max auto-rickshaws are plying on the roads of Manipur.

All these 2500 auto-rickshaws were sold from the dealer in the last four years.

During the current year, the dealer has been selling 110 to 120 vehicles every month.

ENT specialist Dr RK Joy said that it can be harmful to human health once the noise level crosses 60 dbs.

It is generally accepted that there is noise pollution if the noise level reaches 70 to 80 dbs in urban areas.

When noise level reaches 60 dbs to 90 dbs, many ear cells start over-working.

This has the potential to cause permanent damage to ears, said Dr RK Joy.

Indiscriminate use of horns has added to the nuisance.

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