Install CCTVs along Panchsheel Park stretch, says NGT
The petition gave directions to the civic bodies to erect screens or walls along both sides of the road to block the noise.
New Delhi: To curb noise pollution, the National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi traffic police to install cameras before the end of this year to monitor the speed of vehicles and to record their details on the busy Outer Ring Road stretch running along Panchsheel Park.
“We have given directions that the installation of speed cameras be completed within December and immediately thereafter, violators be challaned. We further direct that Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi government and public works department report to the NGT every three months about the progress on the directions issued by it,” the green panel said.
It ordered that the portion of the Outer Ring Road, which passes through Panchsheel Park, should be made of smooth asphalt as recommended by IIT, Roorkee in a bid to curtail noise pollution.
The tribunal had earlier issued directives for declaring Panchsheel Park in South Delhi a ‘silent zone’ and restricting the speed limit of vehicles to 30 kmph in the area. It had directed the traffic police to ensure no overloaded vehicles plied in the area and that no pressure horns were used.
A bench headed by justice Jawad Rahim also directed planting of trees and shrubs along both sides of the road. It also asked the Delhi police to strictly implement the existing ban on pressure horns and prevent entry of overloaded trucks in this area.
The directions came on a plea filed by Panchsheel Park resident, O. Saigal, who said noise pollution on Outer Ring Road was affecting the health of those living in the area. The petition had said sound levels in the area were above the set norms under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
The petition gave directions to the civic bodies to erect screens or walls along both sides of the road to block the noise. However, the Delhi government told the NGT that erecting high walls on both sides of the road to block noise would adversely affect the aesthetics, blocking the view of residents and traffic.