SHANGHAI : In a bid to curb noise pollution, Shanghai authorities are hoping the threat of a new US$26 fine will discourage impatient drivers from blaring their horns indiscriminately.

For years, residents of apartments along Shanghai's Chang Le Road have had to shut their windows tight because of the constant blaring of horns by inconsiderate drivers.

"Someone couldn't stand it and shouted at them to stop. It's too noisy," said Shanghai resident Hu Quan Ji.

Madam Hu is not alone.

According to surveys by the city's Environmental Protection Bureau, more than 70% of residents in roadside apartments complained about noisy honking.

Officials said prolonged exposure to noise levels above 70 decibels can affect one's health.

The new anti-honking law bans drivers, including moped and motorbike riders, from sounding their horns within the city centre, which is defined as the area within Shanghai's Outer Ring Road.

Offenders can be fined up to 200 yuan (US$26).

But many drivers claimed they toot their horns for safety reasons.

"If pedestrians are more aware (of the traffic), we wouldn't have to use the horn," said one Chinese motorist.

Another agreed: "When pedestrians are crossing the road and there's danger, we'll toot. It's not fair if we're summoned by the police because of this."

Police will be focusing their efforts on hostile noise-makers behind the wheel, in particular, those who horn loudly and relentlessly, out of impatience or bad manners.

Enforcing this ban is quite a challenge since traffic police officers are required to produce enough evidence before they can impose the fine.

When there is heavy traffic, it will not be easy for the police to single out every honking culprit.

Right now, police officers are only targeting drivers whom they can see and hear using the horn indiscriminately.

And even the police themselves aren't spared.

"Police cars are privileged vehicles; we don't know if they're really on a mission when they sound the siren. Sometimes we even see them with wives and kids in the car when the siren is wailing," complained a Chinese motorist.

So now, there will be no screaming sirens during the day, except in emergencies. - CNA /ls