GUWAHATI: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has proposed a unique and culturally inspired shift in how car horns sound on Indian roads. The minister reportedly revealed plans to introduce legislation mandating that vehicle horns emit sounds derived from Indian musical instruments.
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Gadkari suggested that replacing the harsh blare of traditional horns with more soothing sounds—such as those of the flute, tabla, violin, and harmonium—could significantly improve the acoustic environment of Indian cities.
Highlighting broader environmental concerns, Gadkari reportedly pointed out that the transport sector is a major contributor to pollution, accounting for nearly 40% of the country’s air quality issues. He also reaffirmed the Modi government's commitment to promoting eco-friendly alternatives like methanol- and ethanol-based fuels.
Reflecting on India’s growing stature in the global automobile landscape, the minister noted that the country is now the third-largest automobile market in the world, following only the United States and China. India’s automobile exports, particularly of two-wheelers and cars, are also a major source of revenue.
Gadkari stated the rapid growth of the sector, stating that the automobile industry’s value has risen from ₹14 lakh crore in 2014 to ₹22 lakh crore today.
