Pressure horns, also known as air horns or loud horns, are often used in vehicles to produce a high-pitched, loud sound. While these horns may seem useful for getting attention in emergency situations, their use is regulated because they cause significant noise pollution and disturb public peace, especially in urban areas.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1989 and local noise pollution control regulations, the use of pressure horns is prohibited. The law specifically states that any modifications that increase the noise level of a vehicle's horn beyond permissible limits are illegal. This includes pressure horns, which produce sound levels far above those allowed by the regulations.
Pressure horns create a high volume of sound, often exceeding 120 decibels. This level of noise is harmful to human health and can cause hearing damage, stress, and disturbances to residents in populated areas. In many cities, noise pollution control measures limit sound levels to 80–85 decibels for vehicle horns.
The penalty for using a pressure horn or any other unauthorised loud horn can vary depending on local regulations and the severity of the violation. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, offenders can face fines ranging from ₹100 to ₹500 for the first violation. However, if the offense is repeated or if the modification is particularly disruptive, fines can go up to ₹1,000 or more.
In some cases, law enforcement authorities may seize the unauthorized pressure horn and order the vehicle owner to replace it with a compliant horn. The vehicle may also be fined or impounded if the modification is not removed within the given time frame.
Pressure horns contribute to environmental noise pollution and compromise public peace, which is why their use is restricted under national environmental policies. Additionally, excessively loud horns may contribute to road rage and cause drivers to become more agitated, increasing the risk of accidents.
Noise pollution from loud horns can cause hearing impairment and long-term health problems, such as hypertension, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, especially in densely populated areas. The government, through noise pollution control rules, aims to reduce these risks by limiting excessive sound levels.
Using an unauthorized horn can lead to insurance complications in the event of an accident. Since the vehicle is considered non-compliant with traffic safety standards, the insurance company may refuse to pay out claims for damages caused during an incident.
Pressure horns often create a public disturbance, especially in urban areas, school zones, or residential neighborhoods. In some places, the use of such horns is further restricted in silence zones (like hospitals and educational institutions), where noise levels must be kept to a minimum to prevent disturbance.
In Mumbai, a driver is caught using a pressure horn while driving through a busy residential area. The noise from the horn causes disturbance to the residents, and the traffic police issue a fine of ₹500. The officer also confiscates the horn and instructs the vehicle owner to replace it with a factory-approved horn within 24 hours to avoid further legal consequences.
Answer By Law4u Team
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