The Delhi-Gurgaon expressway is set to become a "no-honking" zone

In a significant measure to tackle noise pollution and promote safe driving practices, the entire 20-km stretch of the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway stretching from the Sirhaul border to the Kherki Daula toll plaza is being declared a no-horning zone. The decision, announced by Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav after a meeting of the District Road Safety Committee, is aimed at creating a more calm and peaceful environment for commuters on the busy expressway.

To raise awareness about the new regulation, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will install around 200 signboards along the expressway, informing motorists about the no-horning rule. By encouraging lane driving practices and discouraging unnecessary honking, the authorities hope to improve traffic discipline and reduce noise levels on this vital link between Delhi and Gurgaon.

Besides the expressway, ten hospitals in Gurugram, including major hospitals such as Medanta, Fortis, Max and Artemis, will also be designated as no-horning zones. The move is in line with global practices recognizing the need for a peaceful environment around medical facilities. To educate the public about this new rule, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) will put up signboards around each hospital.

While the initial phase will include advisory measures to raise awareness, non-compliance with the no-horning rule will eventually lead to fines, as enforced by the traffic police. As per the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the permissible noise level in commercial areas should not exceed 65 decibels during the day and 55 decibels at night, while near sensitive areas like hospitals, the limit is set at 45 decibels.

District Road Safety Committee headed by Deputy Commissioner holds regular meetings and includes representatives from various agencies like Traffic Police, RTO, NHAI, GMDA, MCG, PWD and Sub-Divisional Magistrates to comprehensively address road safety issues .

In another development, Deputy Commissioner Yadav directed Gurgaon Police to act against five dhabas and two fuel stations near Rampura flyover for obstructing drainage along NH-8. It is important to preserve proper drainage, and officials have warned of possible FIRs against those causing obstruction.

Additionally, a committee comprising officials from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and traffic police will inspect the roads near the Millennium City Center Gurugram metro station. It aims to address traffic congestion caused by haphazard parking by cabs, autorickshaws and e-rickshaws picking up passengers in the area. The committee will propose viable solutions to increase traffic flow and road safety in the area.