MEV 017: Unit 06 – Industrial and Noise Pollution

 UNIT 6: INDUSTRIAL AND NOISE POLLUTION


6.1 Introduction

Industrial growth has brought economic benefits but also led to environmental challenges. Industrial pollution arises from manufacturing processes, chemical waste, and emissions, while noise pollution is an often-overlooked byproduct of modern life, especially in urban and industrial zones. Both types of pollution pose serious threats to human health and ecological balance. This unit discusses the legal frameworks, causes, impacts, and regulatory measures relating to industrial and noise pollution in India.


6.2 Objectives

After completing this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the sources and impacts of industrial and noise pollution.
  • Discuss major legislations such as the Factories Act (1948), Motor Vehicles Act (1988), and Public Liability Insurance Act (1991).
  • Explain the rules and standards for noise pollution control.
  • Describe the role of CPCB and SPCBs in industrial and noise pollution control.
  • AnalyzeEIA Notification, 2006 in the context of industrial projects.

6.3 The Factories Act, 1948

The Factories Act, 1948 is a key piece of legislation governing industrial safety, health, and welfare in India.

6.3.1 Safety in Ports and Docks

  • Separate safety codes and guidelines apply to dock and port workers under the Dock Workers (Safety, Health and Welfare) Act, 1986.
  • Emphasis on prevention of accidents, fire hazards, and chemical exposure.

6.3.2 Safety in Mines

  • Governed by the Mines Act, 1952 and associated rules.
  • Ensures safe working conditions in coal, metal, and other mines.
  • Enforces provisions for ventilation, dust control, and mine safety officers.

6.3.3 National Safety Council, 1966

  • Set up by the Ministry of Labour to promote industrial safety.
  • Organizes training programs, safety audits, and National Safety Day campaigns.
  • Plays a key role in accident prevention in factories and hazardous industries.

6.4 The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988

The Motor Vehicles Act regulates vehicle emissions and noise pollution from automobiles.

  • Empowers authorities to set emission norms and noise limits for vehicles.
  • Introduced the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification.
  • Updated in 2019 to include stricter penalties for non-compliance.
  • Supports adoption of eco-friendly transport solutions (e.g., electric vehicles).

6.5 The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991

  • Introduced after the Bhopal Gas Tragedy to ensure prompt relief to victims of industrial accidents.
  • Mandates insurance coverage for industries handling hazardous substances.
  • Establishes a fund for immediate compensation in case of an accident.
  • Ensures strict liability of industries without the need to prove fault.

6.6 Noise Pollution

Noise pollution refers to unwanted or harmful sounds that interfere with normal activities such as sleeping, communication, or mental well-being.

6.6.1 Factors Influencing Noise Pollution

  • Urbanization and traffic congestion
  • Industrial machinery
  • Construction activities
  • Lack of zoning regulations
  • Cultural and religious events (loudspeakers, firecrackers)

6.6.2 Sources of Noise Pollution

  • Road traffic (horns, engines)
  • Railways and airports
  • Industries and construction
  • Household gadgets (generators, music systems)
  • Public address systems

6.6.3 Functions of CPCB and SPCBs in Noise Control

  • Setting ambient noise standards.
  • Monitoring and mapping noise levels in urban areas.
  • Issuing guidelines for construction and traffic noise.
  • Reviewing compliance with Noise Pollution Rules.
  • Facilitating public complaints and grievance redressal.

6.6.4 Ambient Air Quality Standards in Respect of Noise

The CPCB has defined noise standards (measured in dB(A)Leq):

Area Category

Day Time Limit

Night Time Limit

Industrial Area

75 dB

70 dB

Commercial Area

65 dB

55 dB

Residential Area

55 dB

45 dB

Silent Zone

50 dB

40 dB

Silent Zone includes areas around hospitals, schools, courts (within 100 m).


6.6.5 The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000

  • Issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
  • Prohibit use of loudspeakers and firecrackers between 10 PM and 6 AM.
  • Define “ambient noise” and penalties for violations.
  • Empower District Magistrates to enforce noise control measures.
  • Mandates zoning of areas into industrial, commercial, residential, and silent.

6.7 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

EIA is a tool used to assess environmental consequences before the approval of industrial and infrastructure projects.

6.7.1 EIA Notification, 2006

  • Issued under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
  • Classifies projects into Category A (handled by MoEFCC) and Category B (by SEIAAs).
  • Requires:
    • Scoping and screening
    • Public consultation
    • Submission of Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
  • Mandates preparation of Environmental Management Plans (EMP) and mitigation strategies.

6.8 Let Us Sum Up

This unit examined industrial and noise pollution—their causes, consequences, and legal frameworks. The Factories Act, Motor Vehicles Act, and Public Liability Insurance Act form the backbone of India’s industrial pollution regulation. Noise pollution is controlled through the Noise Pollution Rules (2000) and ambient noise standards. Regulatory agencies like the CPCB and SPCBs play a vital role in enforcement. Finally, the EIA Notification (2006) ensures that industrial projects are environmentally assessed before implementation, promoting sustainable development.

 

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