Agartala, Oct 12 :Tripura Science, Technology and Environment Minister Animesh Debbarma on Monday called for stricter enforcement of noise pollution regulations in urban and rural areas, emphasising technology-driven monitoring and public participation to ensure compliance.
Addressing a sound level meter distribution and demonstration programme organised by the Tripura State Pollution Control Board at Pragna Bhawan here, Debbarma said the effectiveness of noise pollution control measures should be judged by the actual reduction in noise levels rather than the number of monitoring devices distributed.
He said 45 sound level meters had been distributed earlier and another 35 under the current initiative, taking the total to 80. However, the number remained insufficient to monitor noise pollution effectively across the state, he added.
"Nothing goes without technology. The more technology we use, the stronger our monitoring will become," the minister said, calling for a larger project to strengthen the monitoring capabilities of the police and pollution control authorities.
Expressing concern that enforcement efforts were largely concentrated in urban areas, Debbarma said residents of rural villages also faced disturbances from loudspeakers used during weddings, religious festivals and other social gatherings, sometimes continuing late into the night.
He urged authorities to extend monitoring to rural areas and ensure uniform implementation of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The minister said effective enforcement required cooperation among police personnel, political representatives, club organisers, NGOs, community leaders and citizens. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by police officers when people opposed restrictions on loudspeakers and sound systems.
"My enjoyment should not be at the cost of someone else's suffering," he said, highlighting the difficulties excessive noise could cause students preparing for examinations, elderly people and patients.
Debbarma appreciated the Tripura Police and the Pollution Control Board for their efforts during the previous Durga Puja celebrations. He said the use of sound limiters and enforcement measures had helped improve noise management during the festival.
He also called for action against businesses allegedly involved in the illegal sale and modification of vehicle silencers that generate excessive noise, stressing the need to target suppliers as well as violators.
The minister said a cleaner and quieter environment could improve public health, attract tourists and investors, and contribute to the state's economic growth.
He also congratulated the Pollution Control Board and the Department of Science and Technology on the inauguration of the Dr C V Raman Planetarium at Science City in Agartala.
Debbarma said his department was open to innovative proposals for technology-assisted environmental protection initiatives.
He urged people to celebrate Durga Puja responsibly and ensure that noise levels remained within permissible limits.
