14. Assessment and Mapping of Traffic Noise Levels in Coal Capital of India, Dhanbad: Implications for Noise Pollution Management

The present work is an attempt to analyze the spatial distribution of traffic noise in Dhanbad City, India, to determine and visualize noise levels across all the selected time intervals. Noise pollution can affect residents’ sleep habits, resulting in sleep deprivation and other health problems. It can also cause anxiety, stress, and irritation, impair concentration and efficiency. Chronic exposure to high noise levels can eventually lead to more significant health problems like cardiovascular disease. The continuous hourly equivalent noise level (L_eq) was measured at 22 sampling points. The data was then utilized to create noise contour maps in ArcGIS using the IDW interpolation technique. The results showed that noise levels surpassed the Central Pollution Control Board noise limit for all time periods. During the day, the eastern area of the city, particularly around Nirsa and Mugma, was recognized as the noise hotspot. While the southwestern part, comprising Katras and DAV Mahuda, experienced the highest noise levels during night time. Overall, 36% of the selected locations had average L_eq greater than 75 dBA, while 100% had values greater than 70 dBA. The findings give useful information for decision-makers and city planners in developing noise pollution management strategies in Dhanbad.