NOISE OVERLOAD

In recent years, Baku has seen a noticeable increase in a trend that provokes mixed reactions among residents: cars blasting deafening music. Technological progress has made acoustic systems genuinely powerful—today’s speakers can transform a car into a mobile concert hall. But the price of this "freedom" of sound is public discomfort.

The scene is familiar: evening, a busy avenue, and suddenly the vibration of windows is noticeable even on the fifteenth floor. A car stops at a traffic light, and the music, like a sound wave, fills the space. This not only disrupts the quietness of the streets but also invades the personal space of people who did not choose to be listeners, especially during summer heat when many residents have their windows open.

Between right and violation

From a legal perspective, the situation is ambiguous. Azerbaijan has regulations limiting noise, but these mostly apply to nighttime hours or private property. The issue of car noise, including music, remains effectively without clear regulation. In some countries, such actions are punishable by fines ranging from $50 to $500 depending on volume and location. Clear criteria apply there: if noise exceeds a certain decibel level, the driver is held responsible.

The moral side is even more complex. Some view loud music in cars as a means of self-expression and part of youth subculture. Others see it as an act of aggression and a display of disregard for others. It is indeed a fine line: one person’s freedom ends where another’s right to comfort and silence begins.

Should we limit individual expression for the sake of common comfort? Or should the city tolerate loudness as part of modern culture? There is no answer yet. But one thing is clear: silence is also a value. In the 21st century, a civilised capital must seek balance between individual rights and society’s rights.

In Azerbaijan, noise regulation is enforced through the Code of Administrative Offenses (CAO). For example, Article 521 ("Violation of rules against domestic noise") prohibits noise—including loud singing, music, operation of devices (TVs, tape recorders, etc.)—in residential buildings, entrances, courtyards, and public places from midnight to 7:00 AM. Violations during this period incur fines: ₼150-200 for individuals and ₼2,000-2,500 for officials.

However, there is a critical gap: no clear rules regulate noise from vehicles, including loud music on streets or while driving. The CAO contains other articles relating to special signals.

For instance, Article 155.2-4 prohibits operating vehicles with “special sound (multi-voice) alarms” or demonstrative sounds, including devices disturbing public peace. Violations attract fines of ₼500-800 and confiscation of equipment. Non-standard sound signals (such as laughter, barking, engine roars), used by some drivers mainly to show 'status,' are also banned. Police can seize these devices and impose fines; repeated violations may double fines or apply stricter disciplinary measures.

At the same time, legal practice faces serious challenges: there are no precise criteria defining which decibel levels are violations, especially in urban settings; there is no special law protecting residential streets and public spaces from noise pollution. Human rights advocates note that punishment cases for such noise are rarely recorded; public complaints often go unresolved due to difficulties in proving violations. Police seldom fine for music from cars because it is hard to determine whether it constitutes domestic noise or vehicle misuse.

Why it matters

A city is a complex system where every expression of individuality must consider general order. Baku today actively develops its tourist infrastructure and strives to become a comfortable megacity. But how can the modern image of the capital coexist with 'sound chaos' on its streets? It is hard to speak of high urban culture when residents or visitors must cover their ears from yet another 'car concert.' Should the state intervene? The answer is obvious: yes. But how exactly?

The state can regulate noise levels by law, introducing strict standards for vehicles, especially in residential and central areas. It is important to establish a separate law or subordinate act regulating noise from vehicles and landscape events. Violations should result in fines.

Parallel to this is the importance of technical control. In some countries, police are already equipped with sound meters to identify offenders. Implementing such experience here would allow effective monitoring of road noise levels.

But any measures would be incomplete without cultural work. Society’s attitude toward noise must change; loud music is not freedom but an intrusion into others’ space.

Why so loud?

According to psychologist Afag Babazade, fascination with loud car music often stems not only from the desire to 'enjoy the sound' but also from the need to demonstrate status, emphasise individuality, or even compensate for inner insecurity.

"A car with a powerful audio system becomes a kind of stage. The person feels noticeable, strong, attracting attention. But behind this often lies a need for recognition. At the same time, they rarely realise such display is perceived by others as an intrusion into personal space," notes the expert.

She adds that increased noise levels in cities affect people’s anxiety and irritability levels, reduce concentration, and can cause stress for children and elderly people. Ultimately, loud music concerns not only taste but also the psychological comfort of thousands of residents.

Conclusion

The problem of loud music from cars in Baku is not simply about personal preferences but a multifaceted issue involving legislation, urban culture, and psychological comfort. Clearly, preserving silence in urban environments is not about limiting freedom but protecting everyone’s right to peace.

Solving this problem requires a comprehensive approach. Legislative frameworks need improvement by establishing clear norms and criteria for permissible vehicle noise levels. Alongside this should be strengthened technical control.

However, the most important aspect is changing public consciousness. Through educational efforts, understanding must be fostered that respecting others’ personal space is the foundation of civilised society.

Baku’s ambition to become a modern tourist destination and comfortable place to live cannot ignore noise pollution issues. Achieving balance between individual self-expression and communal well-being is a challenge that must be accepted. Only then can the capital provide its residents and guests with true comfort and create a genuinely harmonious urban environment.