Assessment of noise level status in commercial units of samba town, J&K

The present study has been conducted to assess the status of noise levels in different commercial units of Samba District.. The noise levels of Tea shops, Sweet shops, Medical shops, Karyana stores, Restaurant, Bus Stand etc were measured using Sound Level Meter(Data logger model:407764A).The results showed that noise levels at maximum commercial units were above the permissible limits as prescribed by CPCB. Maximum noise level of 77.4±4.9 dB (A) was recorded at Commercial units with traffic flow rate up to 1600/hrs. and minimum of 69±0.2 dB (A) at Commercial units with traffic flow rate up to 500 /hr. Also, maximum indoor noise level of 81.7±5.1 dB (A)) was recorded at teashops located on National Highway with traffic flow rate up to 1600/hr. The execution of an appropriate management strategy for limiting noise pollution on affected sites is recommended.