Ghaziabad's 'silent' zones have been noisiest this year

GHAZIABAD: Noise pollution levels have remained below maximum limits in trans-Hindon's industrial zone. However, limits have been exceeded in residential, commercial and 'silent' zones. Data compiled by UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for the first six months of 2014 reveal that ambient noise levels have consistently breached set limits in this part of the city.
Experts said rampant use of gensets without canopy during power outages, steep rise in the number of vehicles, and random construction activities are the main causes.
According to UPPCB data, between January and June, the day-time averages of noise pollution levels breached the limits in three of the four zones monitored by the board.
For measuring noise pollution in residential zones, the board monitored developing areas like Vasundhara, Kaushambi and Vaishali. For noise levels in industrial areas, it monitored the Sahibabad industrial area and Anand industrial estate in Mohan Nagar. And for monitoring commercial zones, studies were conducted at several malls and shopping complexes in the trans-Hindon area.
The studies were conducted by UPPCB according to norms set by the union environment ministry in Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules, 2000.
As per averages of data compiled, noise levels remained marginally below maximum limits for residential areas in May and June. Similarly, noise levels were slightly below limits in commercial areas only in January. However, they were consistently high all through in the silent zone, including courts, educational institutions and religious places.
Officials said it is nearly impossible to ascertain the exact sources of noise pollution during daytime, because of the multiplicity of activities in the hyper-urban trans-Hindon area.
"Though activities such as honking goes down at night, movement of heavy vehicles rises drastically, increasing noise pollution. Usage of pressure horns and honking by drivers of several vehicles at the same time are also responsible for noise pollution," said a senior UPPCB official.