India: NGT issues direction to DMRC for compliance of noise pollution norms

December 21, 2017

Source: www.greentribunal.gov.in

Introduction –

The National Green Tribunal (hereinafter referred to as “NGT”) in light of a plea filed by a five year old girl, resident of Rohini, New Delhi, directed the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (herein after referred to as “DMRC”) on December 12, 2017 to strictly adhere to environmental norms.

Brief facts of the case

The complaint was filed by Rakesh Goswami, a resident of Rohini, New Delhi, on behalf of his daughter Samriddhi Goswami. The Applicant seeks for the shifting of the metro stations, viz. Sector 18 to 19 to a suitable alternate site. The Applicant also stated that the noise levels were found to be above
85 decibels, which prompted to seek shifting of the said metro stations.

The applicant has also sought erection of sound barriers around Rohini Sector 18 metro station along with compensation, stating that the actions of the DMRC has been causing trauma due to noise pollution arising from the construction and trial of the metro rail and the station. It was also submitted that the Applicant has made several complaints through her father, to various authorities. However, their grievance was not redressed and the complaint was disposed by the DMRC, stating that the ‘grievance cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the customer. ’ Referring to the Environment Impact Assessment Report of metro stations prepared in August 2011, it was also stated that noise pollution may not pose a health risk but can lead to sleep disorders, stress, high blood pressure and anxiety.

Outcome

The NGT bench headed by Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar, on December 12, 2017, directed the DMRC to comply with the prescribed decibel limits and directed the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to ensure that no noise pollution is caused by its activities, including construction and operation.

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