Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday announced plans to introduce a law banning conventional vehicle horns and mandating that only sounds inspired by Indian musical instruments be used instead.

“I am planning to make a law that the horns of all vehicles should be in Indian musical instruments so that it is pleasant to hear. Flute, tabla, violin, harmonium,” Gadkari said at an event. 

He also spoke about the government’s efforts to push green and biofuels such as ethanol and methanol to reduce pollution, pointing out that the transport sector contributes around 40% of India’s total pollution.

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Gadkari noted that India now generates the highest revenue from exports of two-wheeler vehicles and cars. The indian automobile sector, which was worth Rs 14 lakh crore in 2014, has grown to Rs 22 lakh crore today.

He further added that India has overtaken Japan to become the third-largest automobile market in the world, behind only the US and China.

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Social media reactions

While some welcomed Gadkari’s move, others took the opportunity to share memes. Some even urged the minister to fix roads and traffic chaos before implementing new rules. 

“Thanks to Nitin Gadkari’s innovative ideas, we will no longer be stuck in traffic. We’ll be stuck in classical music concerts,” said someone on X (formerly known as Twitter). 

Another reacted to the news with this video. 

Yet another shared a video of kids dancing to the horn of the bus. 

A third social media user reacted with a meme. 

“Nitin Gadkari, can we please fix traffic chaos and massive roadways corruption before fixing damru, sarangi and bansuri? Kids can’t cycle on roads. Footpaths are captured by bikers. Erickshaw, auto, and buses drive without any fear of law. Honking is no more a compulsion for people, it is a hobby now. All because traffic laws carry no weight. Please fix this, sir,” urged one Internet user.