Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has announced a noise-control campaign aimed at reducing excessive honking in its terminal precincts.
The initiative, sparked by mounting complaints from air travellers and a viral video highlighting the persistent din outside the arrival gates, marks a critical step in sustainable and responsible urban infrastructure management. The airport, one of India’s busiest gateways to the eastern region, will be installing clearly visible ‘No Honking’ signage around the pickup and drop-off zones to discourage motorists from using their horns. The issue came under scrutiny following a social media post by a flyer, which drew public attention to the unbearable noise levels caused by honking in the congested arrival area. The airport’s management quickly acknowledged the concern and confirmed immediate intervention.
Officials admitted that the location of the driveway beneath the departure level amplifies sound, compounding the problem for arriving passengers and staff. In response, airport authorities have initiated a sensitisation drive targeting commercial cab operators and private motorists alike. A series of public-awareness campaigns are being rolled out to educate drivers about the harmful effects of noise pollution, which the World Health Organization classifies as a serious environmental health threat. Beyond signage, the airport is in discussions with Bidhannagar Police to explore enforcing fines on those who flout the honking ban. This approach echoes broader urban sustainability goals and represents a decisive shift from mere advisories to potential legal deterrents.
Motorists, however, argue that structural constraints—such as vehicles illegally parked in no-parking zones and frequent jaywalking—often force them to use horns to navigate the chaos. The tight seven-minute free access window for picking up or dropping off passengers, after which a ₹40 parking fee is imposed, also adds pressure, they claim, making honking an impulsive response to avoid penalties. Despite the operational challenges, the airport’s director confirmed that a high-level meeting is underway to streamline traffic flow, enforce better pedestrian discipline, and review the existing time-limit policy. The long-term objective, officials stress, is not only to enhance the passenger experience but also to set a precedent in sustainable transport norms across Indian airports.
Kolkata’s move comes as Indian cities grapple with rising urban noise levels and increasing pressure to adopt environment-conscious policies. Reducing airport noise pollution fits squarely within national and international efforts to build inclusive, equitable, and sustainable urban ecosystems. While it remains to be seen how strictly the new regulations will be enforced, the airport’s swift response to citizen feedback sets a hopeful precedent. If effectively implemented, the no-honking campaign could become a model for other transport hubs seeking to balance efficiency with eco-responsibility.
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