Study Reveals Alarming Noise Levels in Sundargarh
A recent study published in Elsevier's Next Research journal has highlighted that traffic noise in Sundargarh district, Odisha, is a serious public health concern. Nearly half of the residents surveyed reported high levels of irritation, and a significant number experienced hearing-related problems. The study, conducted by researchers from Utkal University and other institutes, monitored noise levels across five key locations in Sundargarh city over two years, 2022 and 2023.
Monitoring Locations and Findings
The monitoring sites included the district headquarters hospital, Municipal High School, Bank Chowk, New Bus Stand, and RRIT Colony, representing silence, commercial, and residential zones. Researchers found that noise levels frequently exceeded the limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board, particularly in commercial areas and around public institutions. According to Soaham Padhan, a researcher from Utkal University, "The New Bus Stand emerged as the noisiest location, while even areas designated as silence zones, such as hospitals and schools, recorded sound levels well above permissible limits."
Community Survey Results
The study combined field measurements with a community survey of 103 respondents. Padhan added, "Of the 103 respondents surveyed, 44.7% reported being highly irritated by traffic noise, while 59.2% showed high sensitivity to noise exposure." Annoyance levels were significantly linked to age, with middle-aged residents reporting greater disturbance than younger or older groups. Regarding health impacts, Shreerup Goswami, a professor of geology at Utkal University and an author of the study, stated, "Around 8.8% of respondents said they were currently suffering from hearing trauma, while 42.68% reported having experienced hearing problems in the past."
Mental Health and Noise Exposure
Nearly half of the participants showed signs of moderate to high levels of stress or depression, which researchers believe may be linked, at least partly, to persistent noise exposure. The study notes that rapid urbanization and increasing vehicle numbers are major contributors to rising noise levels in Sundargarh. Goswami added, "Vehicle registrations in the district have grown sharply over the years, leading to heavier traffic on roads. Researchers observed that noise levels in 2023 were consistently higher than those recorded in 2022, indicating a worsening trend."
Call for Action
The authors warned that environmental noise is often overlooked compared to air and water pollution, and prolonged exposure can affect hearing, sleep, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. They called for stronger enforcement of noise regulations, routine noise monitoring, expansion of silence zones around schools and hospitals, and the creation of green buffers along busy roads. The researchers noted, "Noise is not merely a background disturbance but a significant public health issue," adding that timely intervention is essential to prevent further deterioration of urban liveability in fast-growing towns such as Sundargarh.
