The Hindu Business Line : Vegetation buffer to beat noise pollution?

THE Sophisticated Test and Instrumentation Centre (STIC) at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has recommended creation of vegetation buffer zones as well as development of roadside plantations in Kochi in view of the high noise level prevailing in the city.

A study conducted by STIC at city's select locations found that noise levels exceeded the permissible limits and the average noise level at the busiest Jose junction was found to be 85.9 decibel (dB). Noise levels at other places were recorded as Kadavanthara junction (85.3dB), Kacheripady (83.1 dB), Willingdon Island (73.2dB), South Railway station (88dB) and a residential colony (68.7dB).

The Director of STIC, Dr Jacob Philip said that it is unlawful to expose people to noise levels exceeding 85 dB for more than eight hours as per international standards. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the maximum permissible environmental noise level prescribed in a commercial area is 65 dB during day and 55 dB at night, he said.

On an average, he said the noise level at Jose junction, Kacheripady, Kadavanthara junction and South Railway station was found to be over 15 dB than the permissible limit. The noise level at Willingdon Island, considered as a comparatively quiet area, was also found to be high. It was also found that the noise level at a residential colony exceeded over 15 dB than the permissible limit. The prescribed limit in a residential area is 55 dB during day and 45 dB at night. The arrival and departure of trains had also given rise to noise levels in excess of 90 dB at South Railway station, resulting in an average of 88 dB over a 10-hour period.

Dr Philip said that noise could be reduced by prescribing noise limits for vehicular traffic and banning honking of horns in certain areas. Creation of silent zones near schools and hospitals would also help in reducing noise levels.

The study also recommended that buildings could be designed in a way to make it noise proof. Other measures suggested include reduction of traffic density in residential areas by giving preference to mass public transport system. Apart from carrying out routine noise pollution checks in all vehicles, it was pointed out that houses and offices should be provided with floors and ceilings insulated with high-sound insulation glasses used for construction.

STIC has also proposed that laws should be promulgated to govern the noise-making properties of equipment that was sold or operated locally to control noise pollution.

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