Dimapur: The Wokha district administration has ordered strict enforcement of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, in line with directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB), in the district with immediate effect.
The order, issued under the “Polluter Pays” principle, highlights a scale of compensation for violations and calls for immediate compliance by the public, event organisers, and businesses to safeguard public health and maintain peace and tranquility in the district.
It said the use of loudspeakers and public address systems requires written permission from the district administration. Their use at night from 10 pm to 6 am or in designated silence zones is strictly prohibited, with violators facing a fine of Rs 10,000 and immediate seizure of equipment, it stated.
The order said diesel generator sets must comply with prescribed noise standards, with penalties ranging from Rs 10,000 for sets up to 62.5 KVA, Rs 25,000 for sets between 62.5 and 1000 KVA, and Rs 1 lakh for sets above 1000 KVA, along with sealing of the equipment.
Sound-emitting construction equipment has also been banned during nighttime in residential areas and silence zones, with violators liable to a fine of Rs 50,000 and seizure of equipment.
Firecrackers are strictly prohibited in silence zones and during nighttime hours, the order said, reiterating the Supreme Court’s prescribed time limits for bursting firecrackers.
The order further stipulated that fines will be doubled for second violations and tripled for third violations, followed by permanent withdrawal of permission to operate equipment or premises.
The district police and designated enforcement authorities have been directed to maintain strict vigil and impose penalties without exception.
The district administration urged all stakeholders to adhere to the regulations to ensure a healthier and more peaceful environment in the district.