The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a directive against the use of vehicles equipped with high-power audio systems and unauthorized lighting, which have been identified as major distractions for drivers and other road users.
The bench, comprising Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sushil Kukreja, emphasized that vehicles fitted with high-power audio systems, including multiple booster amplifiers, subwoofers, and accompanied by LED and laser lights, are not in compliance with legal standards. The court has consequently instructed the Director (Transport) to refrain from issuing fitness certificates to such vehicles.
Background of the Case:
The directive emerged from a suo motu public interest litigation concerning the expansion of national highways in the state. The court has been actively involved in monitoring the removal of encroachments along the highways and addressing the surge in road accidents, which have been partly attributed to the distracting effects of LED, neon, laser, and flash lights in vehicles.
The court noted,
“It is commonly seen that high-power audio systems producing loud sound with a rating of several thousand watts PMPO impair hearing of the driver(s) and passengers of the vehicles thereby causing distraction to other drivers and road users.”
It also highlighted the issue of emergency vehicles like ambulances being indistinguishable from others due to the misuse of lights.
In response, the court has mandated the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Director (Transport) to enforce strict adherence to the Motor Vehicles Act and its rules. Specific instructions have been issued to prevent the use of unauthorized lights and audio systems that compromise safety standards, including the prohibition of DJ rotating LED lights and the transformation of passenger compartments into dance floors.
The court has extended its directive to all relevant authorities, including Traffic Magistrates and other judicial officers in the state, to ensure strict compliance with the order. The aim is to mitigate distractions and enhance the safety of all road users.
The matter is set for further hearing on April 3, with the court expecting status reports on the actions taken by the authorities. The case sees representation from Senior Advocate KD Shreedhar and Advocate Shreya Chauhan for the NHAI, Deputy Solicitor General Balram Sharma for the Union of India, and several senior legal officials representing the State of Himachal Pradesh.
Conclusion:
The Himachal Pradesh High Court’s decision marks a crucial step towards improving road safety in the state. By addressing the hazards posed by high-power audio systems and unauthorized vehicle modifications, the court aims to reduce distractions and prevent road accidents, ensuring a safer environment for all road users.
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