Chennai’s construction, temples, and noise pollution are exasperating

One of the less-discussed concerns, noise pollution, has gained attention due to a recent ruling by the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) southern bench prohibiting two private construction businesses in Chennai from conducting construction operations at night.

Large-scale building projects and houses of worship are two of the main causes of noise pollution in the city, according to activists. Two private companies in Chennai were the subject of injunction orders issued by the NGT lately for engaging in building operations without following the regulations.

According to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, building projects that produce a lot of noise are prohibited from happening at night. The regulations also stipulate that public address systems and loudspeakers may only be used for communication on closed properties between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The companies were working on the Kilpauk foundation for a multi-story structure. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board issued a notice and locals reportedly objected to the operations, but they allegedly went on. The people who were offended filed a lawsuit with the NGT, claiming that there was noise pollution and rule breaking.

Not every city dweller is aware of these regulations, a government advocate told TNIE. “With the amount of construction being done in Chennai, proper awareness might bring a long list of cases before the courts,” he said.

In a similar vein, the TNPCB has received a second complaint accusing the St. Thomas Mount church of disturbing the neighborhood with its loudspeakers.

After receiving a complaint from Chennai-based social activist David Manohar, the board asked the police department to investigate the matter.

Cone speakers are not allowed to be utilized, but campaigners claimed that they are. “The matter has been unresolved for almost four months. When complaints are made against houses of worship, authorities are reluctant to take action, according to Manohar.

Experts believe that there is insufficient enforcement of laws intended to reduce noise pollution. Former TNPCB member secretary K Karthikeyan told TNIE, “The plan will include all of the rules that need to be followed, like erecting noise barriers and windshields while undertaking construction activities.” However, most builders don’t adhere to them. Regardless matter whether the complaint is against a constructor or a house of worship, authorities should respond to all of them.