abstract

Noise Pollution Rules have demonstrated limited efficacy in reducing average daytime noise levels below the prescribed 55 dB(A) limit at Marine Drive in South Mumbai from 2023 to 2026, as evidenced by secondary data from regulatory reports and monitoring studies, failing to substantially mitigate the negative externality of traffic congestion, construction, and urban festivities. Marine Drive, classified as a residential/silent zone under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, has historically recorded exceedances, with a 2016 noise mapping study reporting average daytime Leq levels of 72 dB and noise pollution levels (Lnp) up to 87.49 dB near Churchgate-Marine Lines due to high vehicular density. From 2023 onward, NGT interventions addressed Mumbai Coastal Road construction noise, directing MPCB monitoring, yet Diwali 2023 peaks reached 117 dB at the site, driven by fireworks and crowds. MPCB and MCGM's 2024-2025 Environment Status Report indicate no sustained drop below 55 dB, with 81% of Mumbai's commercial/residential zones at 75-85 dB daytime, a trend applicable to Marine Drive amid a 4.91% rise in vehicles; festival monitoring routinely shows exceedances without quantified on-site reductions to compliant levels. Overall, enforcement actions like notices to BMC yielded minimal impact (estimated 0-10% reduction), as urban growth sustains 70-80 dB averages, perpetuating health risks from chronic exposure exceeding 75 dB Lnp. Thus, the rules have not achieved the targeted reduction in negative externalities over this period.