Evaluation of Noise Level in and Around Railway Platform in Surat City

Abstract

The constantly increasing market demand in transport leads to a less peaceful transport system affecting many citizens both during the day and overnight. Noise is seen as the most important environment issue for those living in the neighbourhood of a railway line. According to data obtained from Ministry of Indian Railways, 11,000 trains run every day, of which 7,000 are passenger trains (Graphical representation of Noise levels in and around Mumbai during 2011). These trains have the potential to generate noise especially while stoppage in or nearby railway stations. Attempts were made to evaluate the noise levels in and around the railway platform in the Surat city. Based on levels of exposure to noise sources, total of 06 study locations were identified. Noise levels on weekday and weekend were measured in three time shifts day, evening and night at the predefined study spots. It is observed from study that the majority of the noise levels exceed the limit stipulated by Central Pollution Control Board at all locations. For better representation of results, box plots were illustrated. The research was carried out to quantify the noise potential nearby Surat railway station and the same can be utilised in order to mitigate the issue. Attempts should be made to reduce noise levels for humans exposed to area nearby railway station. Noise barriers should be provided to absorb noise coming from movement of trains, and some safety aids like earplugs have to be used by those people who are continuously exposed to higher and noisy area. Regular maintenance of railway track solves the issue up to certain extent.