Kochi unaware of noise pollution

KOCHI: With the National Initiative for Safe Sound, Indian Medical Association Kochi chapter, the district administration, Kochi Corporation, City Police and various NGOs observing ‘no honking day’ in Kochi on December 1, there has been an increasing demand for studies on noise pollution and its health hazards. While there is high awareness on air, water and land pollution, there’s a deafening silence about the high level of noise pollution in the city where construction works are on round the clock, point out health experts.  

“Exposure to high decibel sound for long can result in temporary hearing loss which can lead to permanent hearing loss. Noise pollution can also affect brain functioning, cause hypertension, increase blood sugar, result in memory loss and cause high stress level and anxiety. Lack of concentration and learning disabilities are the ill effects of noise pollution among children,” said Dr. M. Narayanan, IMA, Kochi chapter president. Vehicles, industries and loud speakers mainly contribute to noise pollution.

“No studies have been conducted on the ill effects of high decibel sound from Metro Rail construction sites. The impact of piling and the sound of heavy machinery round the clock on human health should be studied in details,” said sources at the State Pollution Control Board. On December 1, a public meeting will be organized at Vyttila mobility hub which will be inaugurated by Transport Minister A.K Saseendran. Awareness sessions will be given to drivers and leaflets on the importance of safe sound will also be distributed during the function. Rotary Club, Young Indians, Lions Club and various schools in the city are also associating with the event.

“There is a clear lack of awareness on the ill effects of noise. Honking and making loud announcements at public functions are part of our culture. Though we look at it as a nuisance, most of us are ignorant of its larger effects on our health. I have been to Singapore recently where there is no noise pollution on the streets and roads. No vehicle honks at signals,” said Nithin Jose, a student at St. Albert’s College.