Comparative analysis of noise pollution in high traffic zones of Faisalabad and Lahore

Abstract

The chaotic and loud traffic in crowded and densely populated urban areas poses challenges for environmental and urban experts in developing more efficient transportation plans that enhance both quality of life and environmental conditions. Lahore and Faisalabad, being prominent industrial cities in Pakistan, attract a large population due to their industrial importance. However, they encounter significant traffic problems, leading to a noisy and unpleasant environment. Using a Mesteth digital sound meter, noise level samples were gathered from various locations in Lahore and Faisalabad. In Lahore, sites included Jail Road, GPO Mall Road, Badami Bagh Bus Station, Thokar Niaz Baig, Gajumata Bus Station, Shahdra Metro Station, Kalma Chowk flyover, Mochipura Mor, and Babu Sabu toll plaza. In Faisalabad, sites such as GTS Square, Clock Tower, Railway Station, Santayana Road, Allied Mor Bus Stop, Narwala Road, McDonald's Road, D Ground Park, and Chenab Club were sampled. Fieldwork spanned from May 20th to June 23rd, 2022, conducted during morning and evening hours to capture peak and low traffic periods. Measurements were taken at a height of 1.2 meters from the ground and 1 meter away from the traffic flow line as per ISO standards. Data encompassed various zones, including heavy traffic, commercial, semi-commercial, and residential areas. The collected data was organized into Microsoft Excel sheets and subsequently inputted into ArcGIS 10.5 for mapping using Inverse Distance Weighting. After comparing the noise level values of both cities, it can be concluded that Lahore is facing more noise pollution as compared to Faisalabad due to the high noise pollution on the scale. The minimum amount of noise pollution recorded in these cities is 70 dB and the highest amount of noise pollution recorded in these is near 90 dB. This condition is very dangerous because according to the WHO the standard noise level in Pakistan is 75dB.