Consider Replacement Of 15 Years Old Diesel Generators: NGT To Delhi Pollution Control Committee

The bench of Acting Chairperson Justice Sheo Kumar Singh, Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi, Dr. A. Senthil Vel, said “we direct the DPCC to periodically monitor the parameters of noise and air pollution in the area and in case of violation, necessary action be initiated according to the Rules. Further, DPCC need to consider replacement of 15 years old DG Sets, relocation of DG Sets and using cleaner fuel…”

The Tribunal was hearing an application raising the grievance of the noise pollution caused by the continuous running of generators by Reliance Mall at Vikas Puri, Delhi.

The applicant contended that the mall is running 2 x 2000 KVA generators round the clock, which are causing noise pollution harmful to the physical and mental health of the locality's residents, including senior citizens. This continuous noise is posing serious health problems to them, leading to irritation, loss of sleep, rest, and peace, he stated.

However, the report of the Committee formed by NGT found that, “Noise Monitoring results are meeting with prescribed standards as prescribed for Insertion Loss in Notification 2002 and ambient noise as prescribed under Noise Rules, 2000.”

The bench noted that increasing noise levels in the urban areas is posing a serious threat to the health of the people in general and especially to the children and old, in particular.

“There is a need for creating general awareness towards the hazardous effects of noise pollution. Suitable chapters may be added in the text-books which teach civic sense to the children and youth at the initial/early level of education. Special talks and lectures be organised in the schools to highlight the menace of noise pollution and the role of the children and younger generation in preventing it,” observed NGT.

Road infrastructure consideration of noise-reducing pavements, traffic noise impedance walls, and quieter vehicles and installation of natural or artificial noise barriers, no-horn sign, and other traffic-calming measures can reduce noise level at high sound level zones. Implementation of such measures in residential, silence, and commercial zones can provide a livable, workable, and healthy environment for the people residing in nearby areas, opined the Tribunal.

Directing DPCC to periodically monitor the parameters of noise and air pollution in the area, the Tribunal stated, “According to the report submitted by the joint Committee, the noise parameter of the DG Set at Reliance Mall is meeting the prescribed standards.”

Case Title: D. K. Puri v. Govt. of NCT of Delhi & Ors.

Counsel for Applicant: Advocate Baldev Krishan

Counsel for Respondent: Advocate Narender Pal Singh for DPCC

Advocate Virendra Singh for MCD, Advocate Nagender Deswal, for R - 5