Mekhri Circle has the highest noise level

Mekhri Circle has the highest noise level
Deccan Herald

Did you know that noise-induced hearing loss is cumulative across our life spans? Unfortunately, the fact that noise-induced hearing loss is preventable seems to fall on deaf ears. Ears do not bleed to indicate an injury from noise and the onset of hearing loss is invisible.

According to Radhika Poovayya, director, Samvaad Institute of Speech and Hearing, “It is time to address the threat that noise poses to hearing, health, learning and behaviour.”

She adds that continuous exposure to noise above 85 decibels can be harmful to hearing. Says MSJ Nayak , director, Nayak’s Hearing Care Clinic, “Noise exposure is partially responsible for approximately 100 of the 60 crore Indians suffering from hearing loss.”

The Central Pollution Control Board (Environment Protection Act 1986) has prescribed noise standards of sound levels in different areas (see box on the left).

Levels measured on Sunday in some parts of the City is beyond permissible levels (see box).

What you can do today

n The public will be asked to observe a “Quiet Diet” - one minute of silence regardless of their location from 2.15 to 2.16 pm by Samvaad and Nayak’s clinic volunteers.

n These agencies will also measure traffic noise in 10 areas of the city and compare it with permissible limits. The final measurement will be done on MG Road at 11 am (on the footpath diagonally opposite Cauvery Emporium.”

n For a free hearing screening camp, call telephone numbers 55351150 or 22237703.

Permissible levels

Day Night

Residential 55 45

Commercial 65 55

Silent Zones 50 40

Recorded on April 23, 06

Place Noise*

Jayanagar 4th blk 82

Southend Circle 82

JC Road 80

Mekhri Circle 100

KH Road 95

Wilson Garden 82

BTM Layout 79

Forum 78

Brigade Road 98

*in decibels