EVALUATION OF TRAFFIC NOISE LEVELS IN KATHMANDU VALLEY

Abstract

Objectives:
Noise can directly or indirectly have untoward effects in health. Recognizing the level of noise the Kathmandu residents are exposed to in day-to-day may provide a forethought to develop policies and proposal to reduce the noise hazards.

Materials and methods:
Noise was measured at street level, specifically at busy intersections, commercial areas using integrated digital sound level meter. Multiple readings were measured at specific point of time and entered on a data sheet. Commonly used noise assessment parameters were computed.

Results:
Intensities of noise produced in major 31 intersections of the Kathmandu valley were recorded. Satdobato, a major crossroad in ring road and a busy commercial area Putalisadak were the areas with the loudest noise exceeding 80dB. Outskirt area had the lowest level of ambient sound. The sound produced during peak hours were significantly higher than those at usual times p<0.05.

Conclusion:
Kathmandu Valley is continuously being exposed to a noise level of 72 dB and greater which is marginally lower than the occupational health hazard. Education and legislation regarding noise related hearing loss and its effects on the health of the inhabitants should be stressed soon.

Keywords: Ambient noise levels; Kathmandu valley; Noise pollution; Traffic noise levels