An audio surveillance camera capable of remotely measuring noise levels. When it detects a vehicle exceeding the regulated noise level, the camera will record the license plate and the vehicle’s owner will be fined accordingly.
According to NYC Open Data, there has been a 241% increase in noise complaints in the City of New York, from October 2019 to October 2022.
According to a report from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, approximately 1 in 6 New Yorkers suffer from tinnitus or hearing loss, and about 20% are regularly disturbed by noise while indoors.
To address the noise pollution issue, New York City Council member Keith Powers, a Democrat, has proposed new legislation.
“We know New York City is the city that never sleeps, but sometimes we all need a good night’s rest… That’s why I am proud to introduce the ‘Cease the Noise’ Act, a bill that will significantly reduce excessive noise across all 5 boroughs and greatly improve the quality of our city’s basic living,” said Keith Powers.
Under the new law, the New York City government will impose heavier fines on repeat offenders. For a first-time violator, the fine can go up to $800 (~19.3 million VND). If the vehicle owner continues to violate the law, the second offense carries a fine of $1,700 (~41.1 million VND), and for subsequent offenses, the fine will increase to $2,625 (~63.6 million VND).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular exposure to loud noise can cause issues such as heart problems, hearing loss, high blood pressure, stress, depression, anxiety, and other health problems. The World Health Organization considers noise as the second-largest environmental factor contributing to health problems in Europe, after air pollution.
Starting in 2025, additional audio surveillance cameras will be installed in the 5 boroughs of New York City. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be responsible for providing annual reports to the Mayor and City Council President on the program’s progress.
The audio surveillance cameras will operate similarly to red light cameras. When a vehicle is detected emitting a minimum sound level of 85dB from a distance of 15 meters, the camera will be triggered to capture an image. These camera systems will be installed at public locations, making it easier for road users to observe and voluntarily comply with the law.
TT (Tuoitrethudo)
City Implements Sound Surveillance Cameras, Levies Heavy Fines on Noisy Vehicles
A cutting-edge audio surveillance camera can accurately gauge the level of noise emitted by vehicles from afar. Whenever it identifies a vehicle surpassing the authorized noise limit, the camera will promptly capture the vehicle’s video footage. As a consequence, the vehicle owner will be subject to appropriate penalties as per regulations.
