Posers raised on obscuring MV Act
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 14 2024: Use of modified and ear-shattering exhaust pipes fixed on motorcycles not only irritates the general population but also causes noise pollution, disturbing public peace, and contributing to air pollution.

Despite the existing regulations under Section 190(2) of The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which can attract stringent penalties for violations related to road safety, noise, and air pollution; enforcement remains sporadic, and offenders often escape with minimal consequences.

The Motor Vehicles Act mandates that any person who drives or allows a vehicle to be driven in a manner that violates prescribed standards for road safety and noise control faces imprisonment of up to three months, fine up to Rs 10,000, or both for the first offence.

Repeat offenders are liable for harsher penalties, including six months of imprisonment and fine of Rs 10,000.Additionally, violators can be disqualified from holding a driving license for three months.

In an effort to curb the nuisance, Manipur police, along with traffic control police, conducted a special drive against motorcycles fitted with modified exhaust pipes once in a while.

Offenders were made to replace their modified exhausts with the original ones, and the confiscated modifications were crushed using roller.

Despite such action, on humanitarian grounds, none of the offenders were awarded jail terms but released with a warning.

However, the temporary nature of these enforcement drives seems to be emboldening the youth as could be comprehended from young riders violating the regulations, posing threat to commuters and causing severe disturbances, especially to elderly residents living along the roads.

They often come out in group after dusk and the loud noise generated by these modified exhausts disrupts the peace, leading to numerous public complaints.

Manipur Pollution Control Board chairman Dr Usham Deben, on September 28, 2022, officially declared ban on modified loud exhaust pipes on motorcycles, reinforcing the legal framework aimed at tackling this issue.

Despite this declaration, lack of consistent enforcement by the police remains a concern among the residents.

Citizens are of the opinion that authorities ensure regular and committed approach to enforce the ban, rather than limiting their actions to occasional drives.

Continuous and stringent enforcement is essential to deter repeat offenders and address the growing problem effectively.

The public hope that with sustained efforts, the authorities will succeed in mitigating the adverse impacts of modified loud exhaust pipes on the environment and community's well-being.

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