Question

The unpleasant sound is called noise. WHO defines noise above 65 decibels as noise pollution. It becomes harmful when it exceeds 75 dB and is painful above 120 dB. It adversely affects both human beings and domestic animals, as well as wildlife.

1. How does noise pollution affect the health of human beings?
2. Mention the most common source of noise pollution.
3. Some sources of noise pollution are occasional. List some of the examples of such sources.

Answer 1

1. • Causes hearing loss and tinnitus (especially long exposure to high levels).
   • Disturbs sleep and reduces restorative rest, which harms concentration and immunity.
   • Produces physiological and mental effects: stress, headaches, irritability, reduced work/study efficiency, possible cardiovascular effects (raised blood pressure, ulcers, neurosis) with long or intense exposure.
2. Traffic (road vehicles): Traffic is cited as the major cause of urban noise pollution.
3. • Loudspeakers at rallies, religious functions, and public events; fireworks and festival crackers; live concerts and processions.
   • Construction blasts and demolition, blasting for tunnels/roads, and aircraft noise (takeoff/landing) are other episodic but intense sources.