Bengaluru's notorious traffic congestion is now taking a serious toll on the hearing health of its residents. Constant exposure to high noise levels, often ranging between 70 and 100 decibels (dB), is increasingly linked to hearing-related ailments, according to doctors.
Doctors Warn of Rising Hearing Problems
Daily exposure to traffic noise is contributing to a gradual but significant rise in hearing issues across all age groups. Dr. Jyotirmay S. Hegde, HOD and lead consultant in ENT at Aster Whitefield Hospital, explained: "Bengaluru's traffic noise routinely exceeds safe limits, with monitoring data showing levels often crossing 60-70 dB across residential and commercial zones, and even higher in peak traffic corridors. When the level exceeds 70 dB, there is a possibility of hearing impairment."
He added that continuous exposure is a bigger concern. "People are constantly exposed during commuting, from frequent honking, and even while living near busy roads. Studies have shown that the risk of tinnitus increases with every 10 dB rise in traffic noise."
Early Symptoms Often Overlooked
Doctors note that patients with chronic noise exposure often develop symptoms slowly, making early detection difficult. The first sign is typically tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears, followed by difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience muffled hearing or a blocked ear sensation, which can eventually develop into mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss.
In addition to these auditory issues, non-auditory symptoms such as headaches, irritability, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, ear discomfort, and heightened sensitivity to sound are increasingly being reported in clinics.
Earphone Use During Commutes Adds to Risk
Beyond vehicular noise, doctors point to another growing risk: prolonged use of earphones and headphones during commutes. Dr. Shantanu Tandon, senior consultant in ENT at Sakra World Hospital, said: "People tend to increase the volume of their earphones to block out traffic noise. Over time, this damages the delicate hair cells in the inner ear permanently, leading to tinnitus, reduced hearing clarity, and early sensorineural hearing loss. Young adults are particularly affected."
Dr. Jisha K., consultant in ENT at Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, highlighted that despite Bengaluru having strict laws on honking and noise levels, enforcement is weak, and actual noise far exceeds permissible limits. "Weak enforcement of noise regulations and the city's dense traffic culture make the problem worse, putting silence zones like schools and hospitals at risk. In short, unchecked traffic noise is steadily eroding Bengaluru's auditory health and overall well-being," she said.
Hearing Loss Now Affecting Younger Populations
Experts warn that hearing loss, once largely associated with aging, is now being seen among children, teenagers, and young adults. Teja Deepak Desai, associate professor at Dr. SR Chandrasekhar Institute of Speech and Hearing, said: "Today, irreversible sensorineural hearing loss is appearing in younger populations at an alarming rate due to unsafe listening habits. Exposure to high sound levels can also lead to non-auditory symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, stress, cardiovascular disease, and sleep disturbances."
She cited findings from an internal study conducted at the institute between 2020 and 2025. "Hearing loss caused by loud sounds builds up gradually. Sounds above 85 dBA, about the level of heavy traffic, can damage hearing with prolonged exposure, while personal listening devices can reach 100-110 dB, which is unsafe even for short durations. This makes early detection difficult, as the damage progresses silently."
Prevention and Safe Listening Practices
Doctors stress that prevention is both simple and effective. Reducing exposure to loud environments is key. Dr. Hegde advised: "Minimising exposure is essential. Use earplugs in high-noise areas, avoid zones with excessive honking, and limit time spent in heavy traffic."
Dr. Tandon added that safe listening practices are crucial. "Follow the 60/60 rule: listen at less than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Use ear protection in noisy workplaces, treat ear infections early, and manage conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Regular hearing check-ups can help detect problems early."
In summary, Bengaluru's traffic noise is not just an annoyance but a serious public health concern that requires immediate attention from both individuals and authorities.
