Noise Pollution, Its Sources and Effects: A Case Study of University Students in Delhi

Abstract

Noise is a type of pollution and impacts on our health and wellness. The prevalence of noise is increasing in magnitude and severity because of urban life style and no or bad governance of noise in NCR region as the rules is flouted routinely. Noise pollution leads to many chronic and socially significant impacts. The present study investigates the level of awareness about noise pollution in Delhi, its causes, its health impacts and solutions among the youth in Delhi. The paper has used primary data collected through a schedule from university/college students in Delhi. The study concludes that the majority of educated youth is aware about noise pollution, its causes and probable health effects but the vast majority of educated youth did not perceive noise pollution as environmental challenge and ranked it as least important threat to the health and environment. The study reveals that the female youth are more sensitive compared to male youth about noise pollution in Delhi. The study identified vehicular pollution as one of the most important causes of noise pollution and loud music as the second most important cause of noise pollution. It implies that the majority of educated youth understand the health related implications of noise pollution in Delhi. Finally, the study suggests of awareness campaign involving citizens and strict enforcement of environment laws by concerned agencies as the appropriate solution to control environment degradation.

Keywords: Environment Sustainability, Noise Pollution, Health Effects

JEL Classification: Q50, Q53, I12