Relationship Analysis between Vegetation and Traffic Noise Pollution: A Case Study Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

The problem of exposure to traffic noise pollution is rapidly increasing day by day and is closely associated with the rapid industrialization and urbanization process taking place over the glob (Margaritis and Kang, 2016). Nowadays, more than 54% of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase to 66% by the year 2050 (United Nations, 2018). The special effects of vegetation cover on propagation of sound have been the theme of much debate for a number of years (Bell et al., 2007). There is increasing evidence that this is not always true and a significant reduction of noise may be accomplished through vegetation cover if present in adequate density and depth (Peng et al., 2014). Development in urban transportation is increasing day by day. Transportation of goods from one place to another place has become very easy. Specifically, in urban areas, it is common to move people and goods from one place to another. The use of transportation in terms of vehicles makes noise. The noise of vehicles causes many problems including health issues (Monazzam et al., 2015). Noise pollution is very dangerous for human health (Selander et al., 2009). It is also very harmful to the environment. It adversely affects the quality of the environment. Noise pollution badly affects mental health. It develops aggressiveness in public. It leads to higher blood pressure. It increases the stress level. 65 dB of routine contact can cause hypertension. A level of noise above 75 dB can cause stress. It also causes heart diseases. It can cause hearing loss. The cases of noise pollution complaints are more than other environmental issues (Doygun and Gurun, 2008).