Noise pollution in municipal cities of Bangladesh: A case study of Narayanaganj city

Abstract

Noise is an unavoidable part of modem life. It is well established now that noise is a potential hazard to health, communication and pleasure of social life. This problem is not pertinently acknowledged despite the fact that it is steadily growing in developing countries. Noise pollution is one of the main causes of environmental pollution in Narayanganj, yet much of the noise is unnecessary. The present study reveals that most of the traffic points and many of the industrial, residential, commercial, silent and mixed areas of the city are suffering noises exceeding the standard limits of Bangladesh. Study found noise levels of 76 dB at Chashara, 56 dB at Masdair, 79 dB at Khanpur Industrial area, 58 dB at Khanpur Hospital, and 62 dB at Tanbazar during weekdays though the standard limit for those area are 70, 50, 75, 45 and 60 dB respectively. Required actions include enforcing existing laws on noise pollution, totally outlawing the use of miking for processions and advertising, prohibiting industrial activity in urban areas, introducing and enforcing limits on decibels in urban areas, improving traffic system, and raising consciousness among people.