Aryan Joshi, and Varun Kamoji
Grade 9, Mallya Aditi International School, Bengaluru
A growing concern particularly in urban settlements, the environmental issue of noise pollution and its impact on health is rapidly growing. While noise related researches are still in nascent stages, we’re aware of the significant correlation between excess noise exposure and declining human health.
This paper aims to analyze the existing noise environment at Elgin Apartment, Bangalore. Noise levels were measured at Elgin and nearby locations during peak and non-peak hours of traffic and various noise sources were identified. Background information and statistics were collected on noise, noise level measurement and permissible noise limits.
We conducted a questionnaire survey with 80 respondents in Elgin and the results were analyzed using graphs. Data and survey results indicate that the main source of noise is vehicular traffic. Magnitude of vehicular traffic showed an increase in noise levels during peak hours.
Secondly, we probed the adverse impacts of noise. These were sleeping disorders, communication troubles, stress, headache and therefore reduced quality of life. Post a few noise insulation measures undertaken by the apartment residents, noise level measures still showed an increase.
Finally, we have suggested various solutions, few specific to the apartment and others to curb noise and reduce traffic. We found that creating public awareness, encouraging government efforts and shifting towards public and non-motorized transports were the most effective noise control tools. The paper stresses the need to identify protection against noise as a citizen’s right to life and urges everyone to be conscientious of their transport choices.
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