Traffic Police strengthen "No Horn" campaign to combat noise pollution

Kathmandu, October 10 — The traffic police have announced stricter measures for the "No Horn" campaign, aimed at reducing noise pollution from vehicles in the valley.

The "No Horn" zone was declared in the Kathmandu valley on April 14, 2017. The campaign has involved distributing pamphlets, conducting awareness programs, and placing "No Horn" stickers, which have contributed to a reduction in unnecessary honking. While the initial implementation was effective, there has been a gradual increase in honking in recent days, prompting the traffic police to take stringent action.

The head of the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, Deputy Inspector General Bharat Bahadur Bohara, stated that they are committed to discouraging unnecessary honking, which exacerbates noise pollution and affects the health of pedestrians, especially children, the elderly, and the sick. Regular monitoring and action are being taken in response to complaints regarding the impact of excessive honking.

Recently, vehicles have resumed honking in areas where traffic police are not present. In the last fiscal year 2023/24, the traffic police took action against 10,123 vehicles for unnecessary honking, and this year, they have already acted against 9,830 vehicles.

The average person's hearing capacity is around 26 decibels, and sounds up to 60 decibels are generally acceptable, while sounds above 70 decibels can be harmful to health.

The traffic police have requested that honking should only be used in cases of emergencies, such as when accidents are likely or at blind curves where visibility is obstructed.