SPATIAL PATTERN OF NOISE POLLUTION IN LAHORE CITY (2011)

The objective of this study was to analyze and evaluate road traffic noise and to see its spatial pattern in Lahore City. A weighting sound level meter was used in the study. All the measurements were taken at a height of about 1.2 m from the ground. Noise measurements were taken at fifty six sample sites. Spatial pattern of noise was shown in the maps. Maps were also drawn to show buffers dividing areas into moderate, high and extremely high risk zones in accordance with noise risk levels. Day and night time noise maps were also drawn with the graduated symbol. The mean day-night values were exceeding the permissible environmental standards used in Pakistan. High level noise was found at all the sample sites. Areas in the North West of the City were highly polluted due to congested and narrow roads as well as high traffic volume. The noise levels were found at higher level along the roads having high traffic density.