Hyderabad is increasingly finding itself at the crossroads of rapid urban growth and an escalating noise pollution crisis. The city, once known for its laid-back atmosphere, is now battling rising levels of noise, primarily driven by vehicular traffic, construction activities, and the overall demands of urbanisation. As this issue becomes more pressing, experts are calling for immediate action and more sustainable strategies to curb this often overlooked yet harmful form of pollution.
A recent study conducted by the International Institute of Information Technology-Hyderabad, in collaboration with a leading media outlet, mapped out noise hotspots across the city, highlighting a troubling surge in noise levels. Key areas, particularly near major intersections and densely populated zones, have been identified as the epicentre of this growing auditory disturbance. According to the data, the noise levels in some regions are significantly higher than global standards, with traffic-related sounds contributing overwhelmingly to the problem.
In response to this alarming trend, local authorities, along with urban experts, are exploring various interventions. One notable initiative was the introduction of acoustic cameras at busy traffic signals in 2020. These innovative devices were designed to monitor noise emissions from individual vehicles, issuing automatic fines when sound levels exceeded permissible limits. While the cameras proved effective in curbing excessive honking, the initiative was halted during the pandemic, and experts believe its revival could play a key role in reducing road noise. Public awareness campaigns, such as highlighting the dangers of unnecessary honking, have also been instrumental in educating citizens. With nearly 70% of road noise attributed to honking, experts suggest that educating the public could alleviate a significant portion of the problem.
In a more technical push to address the issue, experts advocate for the installation of noise measurement meters at key intersections, particularly in high-traffic zones. These devices would offer real-time data, enabling authorities to track and mitigate excessive noise levels. Additionally, stricter regulations on the noise emitted by vehicle horns have been proposed. Experts suggest that vehicle manufacturers should be mandated to limit horn noise to a range of 55 to 65 decibels, which would not only help reduce sound pollution but also promote a quieter and more pleasant environment. However, while these solutions may help in the short term, experts emphasise that long-term change will depend heavily on public education, starting with the younger generation. Another aspect of the noise problem in Hyderabad is the construction industry, which continues to expand rapidly in response to the city’s growing real estate needs. Construction noise, particularly from high-rise projects, has been a significant contributor to the city’s soundscape disruption. Experts recommend measures such as restricting construction hours to reduce noise exposure during early mornings and late evenings. They also propose the use of soundproofing materials and noise-dampening curtains around construction sites to minimise the impact on surrounding communities. These measures would ensure that those living near construction zones are not constantly exposed to high-decibel levels, which can lead to both auditory and mental health issues.
In addition to these measures, experts point out the vital role of green spaces in mitigating noise pollution. Research indicates that trees and plants act as natural sound barriers, absorbing sound waves and reducing the overall noise exposure in urban environments. As Hyderabad continues to expand, the incorporation of more green spaces in city planning is seen as a key solution. This could include creating urban parks, planting trees along busy streets, and developing other green areas that can help filter out noise. Finally, experts have stressed the need for improvements in the city’s public transport infrastructure as a long-term solution to the noise crisis. With a limited number of state transport buses and an underdeveloped metro system, Hyderabad has seen a steady increase in the number of private vehicles on the roads, contributing to both traffic congestion and noise pollution. Strengthening public transport options could not only reduce traffic but also help in lowering noise levels, creating a quieter and more sustainable city environment. As Hyderabad confronts the growing challenge of noise pollution, the need for a multifaceted, sustainable approach has never been more urgent. While the city’s rapid growth is inevitable, it is equally crucial to ensure that its soundscape is not drowned out by the clamor of unchecked urbanisation.
Hyderabad Faces Rising Noise Pollution Challenge
