Assessment of Fluctuation in Traffic Noise Levels with Simultaneous traffic density at Kpakungu –Gidan Kwano Road

Abstract

Transportation is one of the important pillars of the nation’s economic and overall growth. Despite its importance, it has its negative impacts on the environment as well as human health. One of its negative impacts is the traffic noise pollution. This paper focus on the relationship between traffic density and noise level. The study was conducted in Kpakungu area, Minna city. The noise level were monitored using the sound level meter and traffic count was done in the form of 2 wheelers, 3 wheelers, 4 wheelers, bus and trucks. It was found that the average noise level is 77dBA, which is higher than the permissible standards set by Nigeria environment standard and regulation enforcement agency. Also, the study indicates, depends on traffic density and factors such as traffic flow, honking of horns, lane indiscipline, unauthorized parking, and heterogeneity of vehicle in traffic. Lane indiscipline by vehicle user often result in traffic congestion and increase in honking of horns. Traffic noise level are not always directly proportional to traffic count, but fluctuates randomly, due to reason enumerated above.