The Annual Frontiers Report 2022, recently released by the United Nations Environment Programme, sparked controversy due to its mention of the Indian city, Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh. The report focuses on three significant environmental concerns requiring prompt attention and action from governments and the public alike: urban noise pollution, wildfires, and phenological shifts. These issues are interconnected with the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
An Unexpected Controversy Emerges
Within the Annual Frontiers Report 2022, a section devoted to noise pollution includes studies of noise levels recorded in numerous cities around the globe. Out of the 61 cities included, five are located in India: Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, Asansol, and Moradabad. The inclusion of Moradabad sparked controversy due to its unusually high decibel (dB) range, which, at a maximum of 114 dB, ranked it as the second-noisiest city in the study. This raised eyebrows, considering previous reports had not indicated Moradabad as an especially noisy location.
The Importance of Noise Measurements
According to the 2018 World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, the recommended threshold for health-protective road traffic noise levels is 53 dB. High noise levels can lead to adverse effects on public health, ranging from temporary distress to severe, chronic physical impairment. Exposure to long-term environmental noise can contribute to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, including elevated blood pressure and diabetes. In Europe alone, environmental noise causes an estimated 12,000 premature deaths annually.
Towards Noise Pollution Control in India
In India, the management of noise levels falls under the jurisdiction of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The CPCB’s responsibilities include tracking noise levels, setting standards and ensuring, through State units, that the sources of excessive noise are controlled. In some cities, sensors have been installed to monitor noise levels in real time.
India’s Legislative Approach to Noise Pollution
Laws regulating noise pollution in India are primarily contained in the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Prior to this, noise pollution was addressed under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Certain equipment like motor vehicles, air-conditioners, and diesel generators have specific noise standards set under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Noise from industry is regulated by State Pollution Control Boards or Pollution Control Committees under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
The National Green Tribunal vs The Central Pollution Control Board
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) play significant roles concerning environmental issues in India. Established by an Act in October 2010, the NGT aims to provide speedy environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in higher courts. On the other hand, the CPCB, constituted under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, promotes cleanliness of streams and wells by preventing and controlling water pollution. It also aims to improve air quality and control air pollution.