Howrah Gantantrik Nagarik Samity & Ors. v. State Of West Bengal & Ors.

Report has been submitted by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board in respect of level of noise pollution in different areas of Kolkata. In most of the areas, the level and intensity of sound pollution in the day and night is more. However, it is submitted by the petitioner that trams are also major sources of noise pollution and by concretization of the area of the tram lines, more noise is being created, which is to impermissible level.

In the circumstances, it is ordered, let the Pollution Control Board measure the noise level and amplitude created by the trams wherever they are running in various places at different speeds and also the maximum speed which is permissible for the trams and submit a report in this Court within 15 days from today.

It is submitted that in Maidan area, there is no concretization of tram lines and as such, noise level created by trams should also be measured for comparative analysis to the areas where lines have been concretized.

Let comparative data of noise level at different speeds/areas in this regard also be submitted by the Pollution Control Board.

With respect to the pressure horns also, Pollution Control Board is to submit a report. Mr. Ashok Banerjee, learned Counsel appearing for the State has assured us as there is restriction on the use of the pressure horns, they shall take appropriate steps to check and remove pressure horns as report indicates that pressure horns are also being excessively used within the Kolkata Metropolitan areas.

Let the State and its officials take steps to ensure that the pressure horns are removed from the motor vehicles as expeditiously as possible and to submit a report of the action taken regarding pressure horns within a period of six weeks.

List after two weeks for submitting report by WBPCB.

Let xerox plain copies of this order duly countersigned by the Assistant Registrar (Court) be given to Mr. Bihani and Mr. Banerjee on usual undertaking.