A recent noise pollution study conducted by the CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR) and released on Thursday has identified Aliganj as the noisiest residential locality in Lucknow, both during the day and at night. The report highlights that although there has been a slight improvement following a peak in 2024, noise levels at all monitored sites continue to exceed prescribed standards.
Decibel Readings and Comparisons
The extent of the problem is evident from the decibel readings. Normal conversation typically falls between 50 and 60 decibels, while traffic noise ranges from 70 to 85 decibels. The study notes that Aliganj's nighttime levels are comparable to being near a busy road, even during hours when quieter conditions are expected. Across residential areas, daytime noise levels ranged from 67.6 to 75.8 decibels, while nighttime levels ranged from 59.2 to 69.2 decibels. These figures are well above the national limits of 55 decibels for daytime and 45 decibels for nighttime in residential zones.
Residential Noise Hotspots
Among residential locations, Aliganj recorded the highest nighttime noise at 69.2 decibels, followed by Vikas Nagar at 66.9, Gomti Nagar at 63.8, and Indira Nagar at 59.2. Commercial and traffic-heavy areas showed even higher readings. Daytime noise in these zones ranged from 77.8 to 83.9 decibels, and nighttime noise from 72.2 to 81.7 decibels, exceeding permissible limits of 65 decibels during the day and 55 decibels at night.
Commercial Areas Most Affected
Charbagh was identified as the noisiest commercial area at night, with 81.7 decibels, followed by Chowk at 77.8, Alambagh at 76.8, and Aminabad at 72.2. The report attributes elevated noise primarily to traffic congestion, heavy vehicular movement, and commercial activity, particularly in markets and transit hubs. Nighttime noise in commercial zones remains high due to heavy vehicles and freight movement.
Health Implications
Experts have warned that prolonged exposure to such noise levels can contribute to stress, sleep disruption, hearing loss, and hypertension. The findings underscore the urgent need for noise mitigation measures in Lucknow's residential and commercial areas.
