Evaluation of Noise Pollution Annoyance at Uninterrupted Traffic Flow Condition

The present study reports the evaluation study of the traffic noise assessment and its annoyance on the quality of life among resident´s adjacent to arterial roads in Intermediate City, Yavatmal, district place in Maharashtra state (India). Traffic noise levels were measured during peak (morning, evening) and Non peak hours. Paper reports noise level status on two major arterials in Yavatmal City. Traffic noise level data were analyzed to evaluate noise descriptors in the form of Lmax, Lmin, L10, L50, L90, Leq, LNP, TNI & Noise climate. The L10 levels ranges from 70 dB (A) to 89 dB (A), Lmax ranges from 84 dB (A) to 117 dB (A). NC ranges from 5 dB (A) to 23 dB (A). In these areas most of the times noise levels were found exceeding the prescribed limit. Traffic volume modal split were also ascertained and two wheelers were found as a most dominant modes of transport. Variation of noise levels with reference to each category of vehicular traffic and total traffic were assessed and presented in a very comprehensive manner. Simultaneously a total of 314 individuals in the vicinity of arterials were questioned in writing for their perceptions and attitudes towards road traffic noise. The health effects of noise pollution are analyzed with the help of questionnaire survey. While significant number of individuals were aware of the interference of traffic noise with daily activities and awareness of the health impact. The socioeconomic characteristics of the sample population were identified and the perceived impact of noise on their welfare and health was evaluated. While significant number of individuals were aware of the interference of traffic noise with daily activities and awareness of the health impact.