The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has taken decisive action against noise pollution violations in Hauz Khas Village, closing down three popular pubs and imposing penalties on others.
This move comes after a Hauz Khas resident lodged a complaint about excessive noise levels, prompting the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to intervene and direct authorities to address the issue. In December 2023, the DPCC and local administration conducted inspections at 23 pubs in Hauz Khas Village, discovering that 11 of them were in violation of noise pollution norms. Subsequently, these errant establishments were fined Rs 10,000 each as environmental compensation, and some were even temporarily shut down. However, concerns persisted, leading the petitioner to approach the NGT again in March this year, citing continued use of loudspeakers and late-night operations by certain pubs. Responding to these ongoing complaints, the DPCC issued a letter dated April 2 detailing its actions against four pubs found guilty of noise pollution violations. The DPCC’s actions included issuing show cause notices to the four pubs and imposing hefty environmental compensation fines of Rs 7.5 lakh each. These fines were levied due to the pubs’ failure to install pollution control devices and obtain mandatory Consent to Operate (CTO) under the Water Act, 1974, and Air Act, 1981.
Under the DPCC’s policy, establishments classified under the orange category, such as restaurants, face environmental compensation fines of Rs 3,75,000. However, this amount doubles if the establishment operates without the requisite consent. The DPCC emphasised that three out of the four pubs failed to respond to show cause notices, leading to closure orders and imposition of fines. The DPCC’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to curbing environmental violations and safeguarding public health. By enforcing strict penalties and compliance measures, the committee aims to ensure that commercial establishments adhere to noise pollution regulations, fostering a more sustainable and harmonious urban environment for residents and visitors alike.
