Traffic Noise Measurement in Mysuru City

Noise pollution is one of the key issues in todays urbanization. Road traffic is one of the significant contributing factors in noise pollution which is affecting the quality of life. Mysuru has been noticing increase in traffic flow from past few years. Continuous exposure to high noise can have adverse effects on auditory and non auditory functions. The present study aimed at measuring traffic noise levels in Mysuru city. Noise measurement was carried out during peak hours in twelve different commercial locations in Mysuru city using B & K Sound level meter. The obtained results showed noise levels at selected locations ranging from 68 dB to 79dB during peak hours of working days. The obtained values are exceeding the permissible noise limits specified by the Ministry of Environment and forests, Government of India. This indicates that individuals working in these areas are at risk of acquiring various health hazards due to high traffic noise levels. Audiologists and speech language pathologists play an important role in creating public awareness regarding prolonged noise exposure and its negative side effects on health and as well as noise prevention and control.