Which of the following laws/legislations consider noise as a pollutant...
- Any unwanted sound that causes annoyance, irritation and pain to the human ear is termed noise. It is measured in A-weighted decibels (dB (A)) that indicate the loudness of the sound.
- Noise level refers to the decibel levels of noise produced by any appliance or machine. In general, the human ear can tolerate noise levels up to 85 dB. Anything beyond that can affect their productivity and quality of life.
- The decibel levels of common sounds above 80 dB are considered ‘loud’, while the decibel levels of common sounds between 100-125 dB are termed ‘uncomfortable’.
- All machines operating in an area should produce noise within the acceptable level to maintain the wellbeing of people around.
- Both section 6 of the Environment Protection (Act), 1986 and the Air (Prevention And Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 consider 'noise' as a pollutant. Hence options 2 and 3 are correct.
- While the Water Prevention and Control of Pollution Act, 1974, does not consider noise as a pollutant. Hence option1 is not correct.
- Noise Regulation in India:
- Earlier, noise pollution and its sources were addressed under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
- They are now, however, regulated separately under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
- Additionally, noise standards for motor vehicles, air-conditioners, refrigerators, diesel generators and certain types of construction equipment are prescribed under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986.
- Noise emanating from industry is regulated by State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees (SPCBs / PCCs) for states / Union territories under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981(Noise is included as an 'air pollutant' under Section 2(a)). Hence option (c) is the correct answer.
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Which of the following laws/legislations consider noise as a pollutant...
The correct answer is option C, which includes the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981:
1. Recognizes noise as a form of air pollution: The Act defines air pollution to include noise. It acknowledges that excessive noise emissions can have adverse effects on human health, well-being, and the environment.
2. Regulates noise pollution: The Act empowers the central and state governments to take measures to prevent, control, and abate air pollution, including noise pollution. It provides guidelines and standards for ambient air quality and emissions from industrial plants, automobiles, and other sources.
3. Sets noise standards: The Act authorizes the central government to prescribe noise standards for different areas and zones. These standards specify the maximum allowable noise levels in decibels (dB) during different times of the day and for different types of areas (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.).
4. Empowers authorities to take action: The Act enables the government and pollution control boards to take appropriate measures to prevent and control noise pollution. This includes issuing directions, conducting inspections, and imposing penalties on violators.
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986:
1. Recognizes noise as an environmental pollutant: The Act defines environmental pollution to include noise pollution. It acknowledges that excessive noise emissions can be harmful to human health, well-being, and the ecosystem.
2. Provides for the protection and improvement of the environment: The Act empowers the central government to take necessary measures for the protection and improvement of the environment. This includes setting standards, regulating activities, and enforcing compliance to prevent and control environmental pollution, including noise pollution.
3. Requires the preparation of noise pollution control rules: The Act mandates the central government to prepare rules for the prevention and control of noise pollution. These rules prescribe permissible noise levels, time restrictions, and other measures to mitigate noise pollution in different areas and zones.
4. Establishes the National Ambient Air Quality Standards: The Act authorizes the central government to prescribe ambient air quality standards, including noise standards, at the national level. These standards serve as a benchmark for assessing and managing noise pollution across the country.
In summary, both the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 recognize noise as a pollutant and provide the necessary legal framework to prevent, control, and mitigate noise pollution in India. These laws empower the government and pollution control authorities to set standards, regulate activities, and take action against violators to protect public health and the environment from the harmful effects of excessive noise.