Article Subject
Environmental
Abstract

Traditionally people of all ages enjoy firecrackers and loudspeakers during celebrations. Apart from
chemical pollution, cases of “noise shock” occur every year. Generally overlooked and underestimated
is Noise Pollution. Noise generated during the various functions is beyond the permissible
levels of 125 dB as per Environment (Protection) (Second amendment) Rules, 1999.
I also highlight the problems faced by some of the noisiest cities of the world like, Nanjing (China), 105
dB; Rome, 90 dB; New York 88 dB; with the average levels. As also the case in India with Kolkatta, 85
dB; Mumbai, 82 dB; Delhi 80 dB and closeby, Kathmandu, 75 dB.

Keywords
Noise
sound pressure level
noise exposure index
silencers
acoustic plenum
damping
lagging