Soundproof homes catching up in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: With a steep increase in air and noise pollution in the garden city, many residents are now forced to make use of soundproof structures equipped with air purifiers for their well being. In many areas there has been a 30 per cent rise in decibel levels, and air pollution is as high as 246 micrograms of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) (which is four times above national limit) in areas such as Hosur Road, Whitefield and ITPL.

Ranked 19th on the list of the world’s densely populated cities, with a population of one crore, an additional floating population of 10 lakh and 60 lakh vehicles, it poses immense challenge the well being of city residents.

According to the Karnataka Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) quarterly data for the month of January-March this year, the city is witnessing an increase in both air and noise pollution. Areas like ITPL, Whitefield, Graphite Indian Ltd have witnessed 246 micrograms of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) while the standard national limit is 60 micrograms.

The air quality in other areas is also fast deteriorating. Areas like  KHB Industrial Area have recorded 120 micrograms, Yeshwanthpura Police Station (97), Central Silk Board (143), Victoria Hospital (115) and Nimhans (134).

Noise pollution too is on the rise in many parts of the city. Areas such as Nimhans have seen a 19.2 per cent rise in decibel level during mornings and 33.5 per cent at night for the month of March this year. Similarly other areas such as RVCE in Mysuru road, Domlur, BTM Layout, S.H. Halli, Church Street, Marathahalli and many more areas are witnessing a significant rise in the decibel level.

This rise in both noise and air pollution has forced city dwellers to incorporate a novel feature in their homes – namely, soundproofing.  Sudarshan, who provides soundproofing solutions for commercial and apartment complexes, said, “There has been an increase in the number of people going in for sound proofing in their apartment complexes because of increase in noise pollution. Also many commercial establishments such as restaurants, schools, colleges and health care facilities are going for the same.”   

While soundproofing  could provide relief indoors, KSPCB officials said there are rules in place for achieving short and long-term solutions to the problem.