2D and 3D mapping of traffic induced noise near major roads passing through densely populated residential area of South Delhi, India

Noise monitoring and mapping is the critical processes to ensure that the noise level does not reach the harmful levels and provides noise exposure level details. 2-D and 3-D noise mapping has been carried out at pre-selected critical locations of major roads passing through densely populated residential areas, namely, Mathura Road, Lodhi Road, Lala Lajpat Rai Road, and Ring road, along with significant intersections, viz. Moolchand, Ashram, Sabz Burj, and Lodhi road. The monitoring has been performed during the day and night’s peak traffic hours using Sound Level Meter (SLM) Larson & Davis 831as per standard procedure. Then after, 2-D and 3-D noise maps have been prepared, visualized, and analyzed by soundPLAN (acoustic) and MapInfo Pro (Desktop GIS). The maximum noise level is observed at Ashram Chowk [81.1 dB (A)] at 8 pm; however, the minimum noise level is found to be at Lala Lajpat Rai Road [76.4dB (A)] at 7 pm. Monitoring results of noise level show non-compliance of regulatory standards for day time and night time. 2-D noise maps revealed that the noise level is maximum at the centerline of the road and decreases either side with the distance, and remains above the permissible limits at all locations. However, the 3-D noise maps show horizontal as well as vertical noise levels at all locations. The 3-D noise maps also revealed a noise level of 70 dB (A) up to a height of 6.096m at the Ashram Chowk and Moolchand intersection. However, a noise level of 65 dB (A) has been observed at the height of 5.486m at Lala Lajpat Rai Marg and Sabz Burj. This study will explore noise levels in both horizontal and vertical directions near roads surrounded by high-rise buildings. It will help the decision-makers take remedial measures.