Evaluation of Noise Environment and Noise Mapping with ArcGIS in Chittagong City, Bangladesh

Abstract

Objectives : Noise pollution in Chittagong City of Bangladesh is a big concern because of huge population growth and urbanization. The objective of the study was to evaluate and mapping the noise levels in twelve locations of this city at different periods.Methods : Noise level data were collected at various locations by a precision grade sound level meter and the noise pollution parameters (Lmin, LAeq,2h and Lmax) were calculated. Furthermore, the noise pollution maps of Chittagong City were developed using geographical information system to address the locations which are prone to the environmental hazards.Results and discussion : The study revealed that the average noise levels were 64.6, 76.9, and 75.5 dB(A) for residential, commercial and silence zones, respectively. The interpolated noise maps showed that noise environment of this city was unsatisfactory, especially, in the areas of New Market, Nasirabad, and Bawa School & College were exposed to high noise pollutions. The afternoon and evening periods were experiencing higher noise pollution in the commercial and silence zones than the morning period of the day.Conclusions : The study suggests that the noise levels are above the acceptable limit and hence urgent measures should be taken into consideration to control the level of noise pollution in the city.