GIS Based Mapping and Assessment of Noise Pollution in Gazipur City, Bangladesh

Abstract

Noise pollution is an extensive concern for urban areas around the world. Gazipur is one of the significant hubs of the garment industry in Bangladesh. The purpose of the study was to address the highest sources of noise pollution in this City and identify the public perceptions of noise pollution. Noise levels have been measured from 38 locations of the City from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm including industrial, mixed, commercial, residential, and sensitive zones on both working and non-working days. ArcGIS based assessment using IDW spatial interpolation technique was used for the mapping of the measured noise levels across the study area. The highest average noise level (100.9 dB) was observed at Joydebpur Junction in the period of the evening (4.00 pm to 6.00 pm) and the lowest average noise level (47.5 dB) was observed in front of the Banghabandhu Satellite Ground Station in the period of the afternoon (12.00 pm to 2.00 pm). Heavy industrialization, vehicles horn, construction sites, traffic noise, loudspeakers, expired engines, loud talking, and outdoor parties are the extensive reasons for the increase in noise pollution in Gazipur City. Study showed that the noise level in every location was higher than the standard levels. Survey data indicated that city dwellers endure noise pollution headaches, irritable moods, sleeplessness, bad temper, and stress. This study strongly suggests that proper implementation of the existing laws helps to mitigate and reduce the noise pollution situation in the study area.