Kohima: Noklak Deputy Commissioner P Mono Khiamniungan issued a directive on July 24 to crack down on noise pollution. The order mandates strict adherence to sound standards to safeguard public health and quiet. It hits businesses, event organizers, and the public alike.
You need written permission from the Deputy Commissioner to use loudspeakers or public address systems. Noise makers remain silent from 10 pm to 6 am. Breaking this rule costs Rs 10,000 and leads to equipment seizure. The same curfew applies to construction gear in residential areas and silence zones. Violators there face a Rs 50,000 fine plus gear seizure.
Diesel generator owners must follow the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Fines for non-compliant generators start at Rs 10,000 for sets up to 62.5 KVA. Medium units between 62.5 and 1,000 KVA face Rs 25,000 penalties. Massive units exceeding 1,000 KVA draw a Rs 1 lakh fine. Authorities will seal all offending machines.
The order limits firecrackers as well. "The order also prohibits bursting of firecrackers in silence zones and between 10 pm and 6 am," the administration stated. Supreme Court time limits remain in effect for holidays. Diwali allows crackers from 8 pm to 10 pm. Gurpurab permits usage from 4 am to 5 am and 9 pm to 10 pm. Christmas and New Year celebrations get a window from 11.55 pm to 12.30 am.
Firecracker fines vary by offender. Individuals pay between Rs 1,000 and Rs 3,000. Event organizers face Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000. Banquet halls and grounds risk fines up to Rs 1 lakh. Repeat offenders lose operating permits for good. Police must maintain strict vigil and enforce these rules immediately.
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