High level of noise pollution, a cause for concern

By S. Shanker

CHENNAI, JULY 12. A recent survey on noise pollution done by a city-based environment institute at the Teynampet traffic intersection indicates that the levels are much higher than permissible norms.

The study conducted by C.P.R. Environmental Educational Centre revealed that the levels averaged between 71db and 102 db and the average was 80.4db, which was by far higher than the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards and the BIS acceptable outdoor noise levels relating to residential and industrial areas (IS 1945-1968).

Since the study was conducted on a government holiday ( June 5, between 9-30 a.m. and 4 p.m.), the readings were bound to be on the lower side, as recorded sound levels were that of vehicular traffic, senior scientists of the environment centre said. While the latest model cars were almost silent, open mufflers such as those fitted on many autorickshaws and horns, besides the heavy vehicles, appeared to be major causes for the increased pollution levels on the road. The scientists did not classify noise levels of different types of vehicles.

Experts are of the opinion that exposure to levels of 80db or more for eight hours a day caused tension and changing breathing patterns. Continuous exposure to high noise levels resulted in fatigue, hearing loss and even increased blood pressure.

The CPCB standards with respect to noise are 65db and 55db, for `day time' and `night time' with regard to commercial areas and 55db and 45db for residential areas for the corresponding period.

The acceptable noise levels as per IS 1945-1968 are, however, far lower. It is 30-40db for suburban areas; 35db to 45db for residential (urban) areas; 40db to 50db for residential and commercial (in urban areas) and between 45db to 55db for other city areas. The BIS standards place the permissible limit for industrial areas between 50 to 60db.

The traffic police conducted about two years ago conducted a major crackdown exercise on air-horns in the city. However, no follow-up action was seen since then. As for autorickshaws, there have been no checks to ensure that the exhaust pipes are `muffled'. A sizable number ply on the city arterial roads with `modified open exhaust pipes', causing nuisance to other road users. This apart, water tankers too have joined the list. Many of the lorries have short or no `silencers' fitted to the exhaust pipes.

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Southern States
Previous : An unlikely visitor comes calling
Next     : Jewellery haul at airport: steps on to nab
           culprits