Tripura Pollution Control Board Hands Over 35 Sound Level Meters to Police to Strengthen Noise Pollution Enforcement
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, October 12, 2026
In a significant step towards strengthening noise pollution control across Tripura, the Tripura State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) on Monday handed over 35 advanced sound level meters to Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) from across the state. The initiative aims to improve noise monitoring, strengthen enforcement of environmental regulations and ensure greater compliance with prescribed noise standards in residential, commercial and other areas.
The equipment was formally distributed at a programme held at Hall No. 3 of Pragya Bhawan in Agartala in the presence of senior officials from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, TSPCB and Tripura Police. The initiative is expected to establish a more effective coordination mechanism between the environmental regulatory authority and the police for addressing noise pollution complaints and violations.
The programme was inaugurated by Animesh Debbarma, Minister for Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Tripura. Shantanu, IAS, Principal Secretary of the department, and Manchak Ippar, IPS, Inspector General of Police (Law and Order), attended the programme as Guests of Honour.
Among the other dignitaries present were Dr. K. Sasikumar, IFS, Chairman of TSPCB; Mahender Singh, IFS, Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment; and Dr. Bishu Karmakar, Member Secretary of TSPCB.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Bishu Karmakar, Member Secretary of TSPCB, who highlighted the importance of seamless coordination between regulatory authorities and enforcement agencies to tackle environmental noise hazards effectively.
He underlined the need for cooperation between the pollution control authorities and the police to ensure that noise pollution regulations are implemented effectively on the ground.
Dr. K. Sasikumar, Chairman of TSPCB, subsequently delivered a detailed presentation on the statutory provisions governing noise pollution, prescribed decibel limits and the legal framework applicable to violations of ambient noise standards.
The presentation highlighted the importance of scientific measurement of sound levels in identifying violations and supporting appropriate enforcement action under the applicable legal provisions.
The availability of sound level meters with police officers is expected to facilitate more systematic monitoring of noise levels and provide technical support during investigations into complaints concerning excessive noise.
Addressing the gathering, Principal Secretary Shantanu emphasised institutional preparedness and the importance of modern technical equipment in monitoring compliance with environmental regulations.
He highlighted the role of scientific tools in improving the capacity of enforcement agencies to identify violations and respond more effectively to noise-related concerns.
IGP Manchak Ippar, speaking from the policing perspective, assured that Tripura Police would actively deploy the newly received sound level meters during festive seasons, public events and routine surveillance.
The equipment is intended to help police personnel monitor sound levels and take appropriate action against violations in accordance with the applicable rules. Special attention is expected to be given to maintaining peace and tranquillity in residential and commercial areas, particularly during periods of heightened public activity.
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