ISSUE:
Whether the use of multi-tone horns and sirens by vehicles, including horns and sirens in ambulances and Police vehicles, violates the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000?
RULE:
The case was guided by the principles of natural justice, and the rule of law applied was that the use of sirens and multi-tone horns should be regulated and restricted to emergency vehicles only.
Rule 4 of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 states that the noise levels in any area/zone shall not exceed the ambient air quality standards in respect of noise as specified in the Schedule, and the authority shall be responsible for the enforcement of noise pollution control measures and the due compliance of the ambient air quality standards in respect of noise.