It is important to be aware of the harmful effects of noise pollution and respond accordingly, as this police initiative has proved. Air pollution is on our radar, but relatively, noise pollution gets much less play. We need to realise that the latter, too, causes huge psychological stress
Cops used a road roller to crush the silencers. Most of the offenders were in the 19-25 age bracket and owned KTM, Pulsar or Royal Enfield, say the police. Pic/Raj Patil
The Mumbai Traffic Police, Bandra traffic division cracked down on bikers who use modified silencers in their bikes, creating a loud noise on the roads and inconveniencing all. Bikes with such silencers were seized and the silencers were then crushed by a bulldozer.
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The action itself sent a no-nonsense message to the bikers that this modification will not be tolerated. There was a dedicated team which nabbed bikers using these silencers. What was heartening was that the cops took cognisance of residents’ complaints about the increased noise. Our men in uniform were also sensitised to senior citizens and hospital patients being assailed by this noise. Fines were also levied for these modifications.
It is important to be aware of the harmful effects of noise pollution and respond accordingly, as this police initiative has proved. Air pollution is on our radar, but relatively, noise pollution gets much less play. We need to realise that the latter, too, causes huge psychological stress.
It may be time for signage on our roads warning against modifications and cautioning bikers that they are liable for fines for the same. Advertisements and documentaries on road safety must factor in the noise pollution factor. We have seen signage and short films asking motorists to cut down on unnecessary honking. Maybe, this can be included too, for bikers seeking to up the machismo or cool dude aspect by roaring through on noisy bikes.
Fines must be implemented and it should bite too. These bikers must realise that the bikes may look good in movies but they are a huge disturbance in real life. Not caring means not having empathy for those who have to put up with this. More connection with others, especially the sick and suffering and respect for those on the road is vital. Cool biker boys ride with poise not noise.
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