Noise pollution mitigation and control in urban areas near international borders through 2D noise mapping

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Noise pollution is defined as any disturbing or unwanted sound that disrupts or harms human health or wildlife. Noise pollution can have profound effects on both human health and the environment. For humans, exposure to excessive noise levels has been linked to a range of health issues, including hearing damage, stress, and sleep disturbances. Noise monitoring and mapping play a crucial role in understanding, managing, and mitigating the impacts of noise pollution on communities and the environment. Urban areas near borders are generally less studied due to restrictions. Therefore, a study has been conducted aiming the monitoring of noise level and looking into its propagation through 2D noise maps in the urban areas of Jammu and Kashmir lying near the Indian border. The monitoring results revealed that even boarder areas are exposed to high noise levels. Bhatindi in Jammu city recorded highest equivalent noise level, Leq of 91.2 dB(A) during evening. Nowshera is calmest among other study area with noise level, Leq of 80.1 dB(A). Further, 2D noise mapping showed some critical locations in study areas of Jammu and Kashmir that the noise propagates to the nearby residential and commercial areas which require immediate remedial measures. The findings not only contribute to the scientific understanding of noise patterns in border regions but also hold practical implications for urban planning, public health, and environmental conservation.