Punjab is known for its vehicle modification culture, both nationally and internationally. We’ve seen several vehicles beefed up with huge tyres, aftermarket lights, body kits, massive sound systems, performance mods, and so on.
Our law does permit certain modifications but with limits. Considering the safety of passengers and pedestrians and considering noise/air pollution, the government has imposed strict guidelines for customizing a vehicle. Anybody who disobeys these guidelines is considered an offender and penalized.
Recently, the Punjab police caught an offender for driving a tractor fitted with an illegal audio system of 52 speakers. The young influencer was driving around the town, creating a loud noise, and the music system was set up so that the speakers’ height surpassed that of a regular truck.
The incident happened in Khanna village, Punjab. The authorities caught the Instagrammer driving a highly modified tractor and playing loud music from the modified audio system, causing nearby disturbances to schools, colleges, and hospitals. The tractor was also equipped with an air horn, which is banned in India.
The modified audio system was vertically mounted to the rear end of the tractor, and the system consisted of almost 52 speakers, reaching a height of 10-12 feet. According to the police, he’s a repeat offender and had been previously caught and warned for similar offenses.
When apprehended on the incident, the owner tried to escape from the police by driving the tractor quickly. However, the traffic police captured and took him and the tractor into custody.
Further investigations revealed that the tractor owner had a history of being charged with different offenses. Also, the tractor was driven without insurance, a pollution certificate, and a registration certificate.
The police have filed several charges against the tractor owner and have mentioned that the case will be taken to the district court for further legal action. The owner has been penalized with a fine of around Rs 1.50 lakh.
This incident highlights the need for responsible vehicle modifications. The individual’s actions violated legal regulations and posed a threat to the environment and public peace due to excessive noise pollution.
