Assessment of Noise Pollution and Human Health in the Context of Urban Form and Mobility: A Case of Indore, India
摘要
In recent decades, numerous research studies have highlighted the hazardous effects of environmental pollution on living organisms and their surroundings in relation to urban form and mobility. The WHO has classified noise pollution as the second leading environmental cause of pollution, significantly impacting the mental and physical health of humans that could result in various behavioural changes and reduced productivity. In order to minimize the harmful effects of noise on human health or to reduce noise generation, the role of urban planning becomes crucial. Despite proven evidence of noise interference with well-being of people, there is a need of a systemic approach to reduce its effects in urban areas. Indore, a commercial hub of Madhya Pradesh, with many formal and informal urban activities contributes to noise pollution throughout the city. The city’s population is increasing exponentially, and dependency on the vehicles is growing, resulting in a rapid increase in noise pollution levels. The research focuses on analysing urban forms and identifying micro-level hotspots in the city where the noise levels exceed the standard limits set for different land uses by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The sound level meter (decibel meter) has been used for measuring the noise levels in the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) area. Furthermore, the human health aspect has been assessed by conducting medical surveys of the patients suffering due to elevated noise levels in hospitals located within the identified hotspots, with findings analysed as per the land use pattern. The study examines the identified harmful sources of noise in urban areas and the characteristics of the city which lead to increase in noise pollution level in certain areas. The research concludes by identifying the characteristics of the city responsible for increasing the noise levels and proposing the sustainable solutions at the city as well as micro-level through spatial and policy level planning.