Anna University’s study calls for transition from the old shuttle looms to reduce noise pollution

Study by Anna University identifies outdated shuttle looms as main cause of noise pollution in Tamil Nadu's power loom industry.

A recent study, conducted by Anna University’s Centre for Environmental Studies (CES), has identified the use of outdated shuttle looms as the main cause of excessive noise pollution from the power loom industry in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu, home to around 5.68 lakh power looms, has the highest concentration of power looms among the Southern States. The study was commissioned by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) following a suo motu case initiated by the Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal on the persistent noise pollution at Tharamangalam in Salem district.

The study recommends transition to shuttle-less looms, along with soundproofing measures, to bring the noise levels to the permissible residential standards. The TNPCB tasked the CES with carrying out a study to identify suitable technology to mitigate noise from power looms. The final report, submitted on November 19, 2024, was recently presented to stakeholders at a meeting organised by the TNPCB.

According to the report, the primary contributor to the elevated noise levels is the shuttle mechanism in the conventional looms. The CES recommends replacing them with shuttle-less looms and installing soundproof barriers made of transparent materials on doors and windows to reduce ambient noise at a distance of 6 metres to 7.5 metres from the loom. The study also raises concern over the prolonged exposure of workers to high decibel levels, often above the permissible occupational limits.

Despite the health risks, many loom operators remain unaware of the long-term effect of noise exposure. Some have become desensitised to the noise, while others fear that acknowledging the problem may jeopardise their livelihoods. The study calls for mandatory use of personal protective equipment like earplugs, along with awareness programmes and regular medical camps.

At the stakeholder meeting, officials of the Department of Handlooms said an immediate shift to shuttle-less looms across the board would be unfeasible and would place a substantial burden on small-scale weavers and the government alike. To facilitate gradual modernisation, representatives of the Tamil Nadu Small Industries Development Corporation and the Small Industries Development Bank of India suggested a funding model that combines government subsidies, long-term bank loans, and partial contributions from entrepreneurs.