Measurement and Analysis of Noise Levels in the Sensitive Areas of Mysuru City, India

Due to the particular characteristics of hospitals, the hospital buildings are highly sensitive to environmental noise. However, they are usually located close or within urban agglomerations and in particular main roads. Hence, hospitals are, in many cases, exposed to high levels of environmental noise. In this study of comprehensive one-month research project, traffic and community noise levels were measured and monitored at five sensitive areas (near hospitals) in its spatial–temporal aspect, at the city of Mysuru, Karnataka. Noise measurements were taken at different peak sessions in morning and evening, for duration of one hour. Observed noise values were analysed and compared with the recommended permissible limits (40–50 dB) as stated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The measured values exceeded the CPCB noise limits prescribed for sensitive areas. This paper presents an analogy of obtained noise readings with the national CPCB standards for silent zones.