Road traffic noise, annoyance and community health survey - A case study for an Indian city

Abstract

The present study is aimed to investigate the impact of noise pollution on residents/community residing near roadside. The degree of annoyance was assessed by means of a questionnaire. It was found that among all noise-generating sources, road traffic was the major source of noise followed by factory/machines. A health survey reported about 52% of population was suffering by frequent irritation. 46% respondent felt hypertension, and 48.6% observed loss of sleep due to noise pollution. Common noise descriptors were also recorded at all the selected sites. It was found that the Leq values were higher (range 73-86) compared to the permissible values (65 dBA) prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board, New Delhi. Further, regression equations were developed between various noise indices and percentage of population highly annoyed, and a strong correlation was also observed.

Community noise pollution in urban India: Need for public health action

“…Studies assessing noise levels in different settings, week day and holidays, and different zones observed that average noise levels were above the permissible standards. (12131415) Another convenient mode of transport in urban areas, the metro trains, were found to generate noise levels, above the permissible levels of 65 dBA (day) and 55 dBA (night) (commercial zone). (16) Although the ambient noise level is reduced due to its predominant underground location, workers are at higher risk, particularly those stationed at the high noise level areas (engine noise, electric generator etc.…”

“…(9) Residents living near roadways reported frequent irritation (52%), hypertension (46%), and loss of sleep (48.6%) due to noise pollution. (15) Sleep is disturbed when indoor noise levels are above 30 dB, and 45 dB for sleeping outdoors. After-effects of sleep disturbance include headache and inability of concentrate in one's work and irritability.…”

Sleep Deprivation: Societal Impact and Long-Term Consequences

“…In addition to light, environmental noise may disturb sleep. Several recent studies have demonstrated that loud noises at night interfere with sleep [188][189][190][191][192][193][194][195]. For example, Basner and colleagues found that sound at 45 dBA increased the likelihood of sleep state change by about 50 % and EEG arousal by about 85 %, and noise at 65 dBA was associated with an approximately fourfold increase in the likelihood of a sleep state change or EEG arousal, as well as awakenings.…”

Pedestrian Crossing Environments in an Emerging Chinese City: Vehicle Encountering, Seamless Walking, and Sensory Perception Perspectives

“…The frequent honking behaviour of vehicle drivers which is associated with traffic congestion is a major source of noise pollution in cities [48]. Noise from horns is the sonic expression of the presence of traffic congestion.…”