India's Drivers Turn Up Volume: Louder Horns Emerge as Congestion Solution

India's Honk-Happy Drivers Switch to Even Louder Horns MUMBAI, India - In a move that is being met with both frustration and fascination, drivers in India are increasingly opting for even louder horns to navigate the country's congested roads. According to data collected by NPR at an intersection near its bureau in Mumbai, there were 27 honks in just one minute during a survey conducted in August. This phenomenon has become so prevalent that it has been dubbed "India's honk-happy drivers." The shift towards louder horns is largely driven by the introduction of new technology that allows for more powerful and customizable horn systems. These advanced horns, which can produce sound levels up to 130 decibels - equivalent to a chainsaw or a rock concert - are being marketed as a solution to the country's notorious traffic congestion. "We're seeing a lot of interest in these high-powered horns," said Rohan Desai, managing director of Horns India, a leading manufacturer of automotive horns. "Drivers want to be heard above the din of the city, and our horns deliver." However, not everyone is pleased with this development. Traffic constable Vikas Rahane expressed concerns about the potential impact on public health. "The noise pollution from these loud horns is already causing problems for pedestrians and cyclists," he said. "We need to find a solution that balances the needs of drivers with the well-being of others." India's cities have long struggled with traffic congestion, which has been exacerbated by rapid urbanization and economic growth. The country's roads are among the most congested in the world, with an estimated 10 million vehicles added to the streets every year. The introduction of even louder horns is likely to further exacerbate this problem, raising concerns about noise pollution and public health. As one resident of Mumbai noted, "It's already hard enough to walk down the street without being deafened by car horns. This just makes it worse." Despite these concerns, manufacturers are predicting strong demand for their high-powered horns. "We're seeing a lot of interest from drivers who want to upgrade their existing horns," said Desai. "This is going to be a big market for us in the coming years." As India's cities continue to grow and evolve, it remains to be seen whether this trend towards louder horns will have any long-term consequences for public health and safety. Background: India's traffic congestion has been a growing concern for decades. The country's roads are among the most congested in the world, with an estimated 10 million vehicles added to the streets every year. Noise pollution from car horns is already a significant problem, with many residents complaining of hearing loss and other health issues. Additional Perspectives: Experts say that the shift towards louder horns highlights the need for more effective traffic management strategies in India's cities. "We need to find ways to reduce congestion and improve air quality," said Dr. Ramesh Menon, a transportation expert at the Indian Institute of Technology. "This is just a symptom of a larger problem." Current Status: The market for high-powered horns is expected to continue growing in the coming years, with manufacturers predicting strong demand from drivers across India. Next Developments: As the trend towards louder horns continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen whether governments will take action to address noise pollution and public health concerns. One thing is certain, however - India's honk-happy drivers are here to stay. *Reporting by Npr.*