Development of GIS-based noise simulation module for point sources: N-dhwani

Abstract

GIS-based noise simulation module has been developed for point sources (N-Dhwani) with attenuation due to barrier, vegetation and atmosphere. Since module is developed on QGIS open-source software, it accepts input in shapefile or Web service formats like Web map service (WMS) and Web feature service (WFS) and provides output in compatible formats for its display and distribution through Web. N-Dhwani simulates the noise level at receptor or simulation points as per user-specified or uniformly distributed locations in the study area from the point sources like loudspeaker, construction activities, mining blasts. For distance calculation between source and receptor, distance matrix algorithm is used to assess the attenuation due to distance. For attenuation, algorithms for barrier, vegetation and atmosphere are also designed and developed on GIS platform. Finally, noise levels at receptor end can be computed considering background noise and presented spatially through noise contour. N-Dhwani provides solution for abatement of noise pollution through designing noise barriers and green belt to check the propagation of noise due to point sources. This will act as a decision-making tool in environmental impact assessment (EIA) studies, new development and construction activities as well as in environmental planning and management.