Research Article Open Access

Effect of Road Traffic Noise Pollution in Cuddalore Town: A Case Study

Abstract

The paper suggests that vulnerable institutions like schools and hospitals should be located about 50m away from the roadside unless any special arrangement to alleviate sound is used. Noise measurements were taken at seventeen chosen areas with high population density, heavy traffic, commercial and residential buildings. At each sampling site six readings were taken after an interval of every 45 minutes in June 2012. Average, maximum and minimum values were calculated and compared with standards prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board. Noise pollution was measured and analyzed and it was noticed that the maximum average of noise level was measured. The major contribution of the traffic noise, towards overall noise pollution scenario, is a well-known established fact. Traffic noise from highways creates problems for surrounding areas, especially when there are high traffic volumes and high speeds. Vehicular traffic noise problem is contributed by various kinds of vehicles like heavy, medium trucks/buses, automobiles and two wheelers. Amongst, noise pollution is an important type, which causes more annoyance and health problems to the human beings. The present work discusses the fundamentals of acoustics and analysis of vehicular traffic noise. The vehicles represent the most important noise source. It was estimated to about 80% from road vehicles. Road traffic noise is one of the most widespread and growing environmental problems in urban areas. The impact of road traffic noise on the community depends on various factors such as road location and design, land use planning measures, building design, vehicle standards and driver behavior. In the study area 17 locations are identified to measure noise level. By using sound level meter noise levels are measured at different peak sessions i.e. morning, afternoon and evening.

P.Balashanmugam, V.Nehrukumar, K.Balasubramaniyan,G.Balasubramanian

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