Police Complaints Authority seeks crackdown on vehicles causing noise pollution in Bengaluru

The Karnataka State Police Complaints Authority (KSPCA) has urged the police to initiate strict and continuous action against vehicles fitted with illegal modified silencers and loud horns, citing rising cases of noise and environmental pollution.

In a communication addressed to the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG & IGP), member Mohan Kumar Danappa highlighted the increasing nuisance caused by two-wheelers and other vehicles using prohibited or defective silencers, particularly in Bengaluru and other urban areas.

The authority noted that such vehicles generate excessive noise and smoke, contributing to both sound and air pollution. Riders, often speeding on city roads, state highways, and national highways, deliberately use modified silencers to draw attention, causing disturbance to other motorists and pedestrians.

The issue has reportedly spread across residential areas, including streets near schools, colleges, hospitals, courts, and places of worship. The letter warned that continuous exposure to such high-decibel noise could lead to serious health concerns, including hearing impairment in infants, increased heart rate, mental stress, and complications for pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with heart conditions.

It also pointed out that incidents of assault and verbal abuse have been reported when residents question offenders, especially during late evening and night hours when such activities peak.

The authority further observed that despite being aware of such violations, police personnel in some jurisdictions have allegedly failed to take adequate action, drawing criticism from the public.

Calling for urgent intervention, the authority has recommended that all police stations across the state conduct special drives to seize vehicles with illegal silencers and initiate legal action under relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, including Sections 52, 53, and 182A.

Additionally, it has sought action against shops and establishments involved in the illegal installation of such modified silencers and horns. The authority has directed that compliance reports be submitted following enforcement measures.

Special drive in Bengaluru

The city traffic police have undertaken a special drive targeting vehicles fitted with shrill horns, tampered silencers, and dazzling lights, which cause inconvenience to other motorists and also violate provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Officials said the drive aims to curb noise pollution and enhance road safety, as such illegal modifications not only disturb people but also increase the risk of accidents.

During the drive, violators are being booked, fined, and in some cases, vehicles are being seized. Police have warned workshops against carrying out unauthorised modifications and urged people to adhere to traffic norms.

Published – March 26, 2026 03:20 pm IST