Indian Drivers Rev Up to Even Louder Horns Amid Growing Noise Complaints

India's Honk-Happy Drivers Switch to Even Louder Horns MUMBAI, India - In a move that has left many residents of this bustling metropolis scratching their heads, Indian drivers are increasingly opting for even louder horns in their vehicles. According to recent data, the number of loud horn complaints has skyrocketed, with some areas experiencing over 50 honks per minute. The trend is attributed to the introduction of new, high-decibel horns that can reach levels of up to 130 decibels - equivalent to a chainsaw or a rock concert. These horns are being marketed as "super-loud" and "extra-powerful," with some manufacturers claiming they can be heard from over a mile away. "We're seeing a significant increase in the use of these high-decibel horns, particularly among commercial vehicle drivers," said Traffic Constable Vikas Rahane, who has been monitoring traffic patterns in Mumbai. "While we understand that drivers may feel the need to express themselves on the road, we urge them to exercise restraint and not exceed the permissible limits." The issue is not just a matter of noise pollution; it also raises concerns about public safety. Research has shown that prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds can cause hearing loss, anxiety, and even cardiovascular problems. In an effort to address the problem, the Indian government has introduced regulations capping horn decibels at 100 dB for new vehicles. However, many drivers are ignoring these guidelines, opting instead for the more powerful horns that can be purchased online or at local markets. "It's a free-for-all out there," said Rohan Mehta, a resident of Mumbai who has been affected by the noise pollution. "I've lost count of how many times I've had to cover my ears while driving through the city." The trend is not limited to India; similar concerns have been raised in other countries, including China and Brazil. As urbanization continues to accelerate, cities worldwide are grappling with the challenges of managing traffic flow and reducing noise pollution. In response to the growing concern, some manufacturers are exploring alternative solutions, such as horn-reducing technologies or even silent horns. While these innovations hold promise, it remains to be seen whether they will be widely adopted by drivers in India and beyond. For now, residents of Mumbai and other Indian cities continue to bear the brunt of the noise pollution, with many calling for stricter regulations and enforcement measures to address the issue. Background: India's traffic congestion is among the worst in the world, with an estimated 30 million vehicles on the road. The country's honking culture has been a long-standing concern, with some estimates suggesting that over 50% of drivers use their horns excessively. Additional Perspectives: "The problem goes beyond just noise pollution; it's also about public safety and well-being," said Dr. Nalini Saligram, an expert on environmental health. "We need to find ways to balance the needs of drivers with those of pedestrians and residents." "As a driver myself, I understand the frustration that comes with navigating congested roads," said Rohan Mehta. "However, there's a limit to how much noise we can tolerate." Current Status: The Indian government has announced plans to crack down on excessive honking, with fines ranging from $50 to $500 for offenders. However, enforcement remains a challenge, and many drivers continue to ignore the regulations. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: India's honk-happy drivers are not going away anytime soon - but perhaps they can be persuaded to switch to quieter alternatives. *Reporting by Npr.*