A new study published in the Oxford journal 'Transportation Safety and Environment' confirms that Ahmedabad is chronically loud, with over 76.7% of the city—home to nearly 77 lakh people—experiencing constant noise levels of 70 decibels (dB) or more. This baseline is 20 dB higher than the Netherlands' limit for new housing construction.
Study Methodology
Researchers Akshay Vinaychandra Vora and Rupesh Vasani from Gujarat Technological University (GTU) spent months covering 400 km of city roads. They recorded sound levels at 633 locations across 30 routes using precision-calibrated Lutron SL-4001 sound meters and GPS units. All readings were taken at ear level (1.5 metres) during peak hours from 9 am to 8 pm on weekdays.
Key Findings
- Noise Levels: The quietest pocket recorded was 40.6 dB, while the loudest hit 82.3 dB. Less than 1% of the city's land area registers healthy noise levels.
- Two-Wheelers Dominance: Despite their size, two-wheelers (scooters and motorcycles) account for over 52% of all traffic noise. A scooter's noise impact score of 2.74 is close to a heavy truck's 3.00.
- Building Impact: Every extra floor added to a building amplifies street noise for surrounding residents.
Noise Hotspots
Residents of Kalupur, Gomtipur, and older eastern quarters suffer from narrower lanes that trap and bounce sound. Heavy freight traffic grinding through markets, compounded by noise from Kalupur Railway Station and the city airport, exacerbates the problem. In contrast, west Ahmedabad, with wider roads, lower buildings, and less freight, is quieter.
Health Consequences
Sustained noise at these levels raises pulse rates, elevates blood pressure, spikes stress hormones, and impairs work performance. The health risks are no longer theoretical.
Recommended Solutions
The study suggests several fixes:
- Noise buffer zones between arterial roads and homes.
- Mandatory road-to-building setbacks in new construction.
- Physical sound barriers along hotspots like the Ellis Bridge–Kalupur stretch.
- Tighter enforcement of silencer standards on two-wheelers.
