Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills Noise Pollution Levels Surpass Industrial Areas

Hyderabad: The noise pollution in Jubilee Hills, a residential area, was worse than Sanathnagar, an industrial zone, according to data recorded by the Telangana Pollution Control Board (TPCB) in August.

The noise pollution levels in the upmarket Jubilee Hills touched 71.30 dB (decibels) during the day, exceeding the standard of 55 dB by nearly 30 per cent. It was worse at night, where the noise of 63.28 dB was over 40 per cent above the norm of 45 dB.

Sanathnagar recorded an average of 69.74 dB during the day, slightly below the 75 dB limit but night-time levels of 65.27 dB exceeded the standard of 70 dB. Jeedimetla showed similar patterns with daytime noise recorded at 66.49 dB.

Sensitive zones like Zoo Park and HCU (Gachibowli) also reported levels that are a matter of concern.

Dr W.G. Prasanna Kumar, senior social scientist with the TSPCB, told Deccan Chronicle, “The high traffic noise levels are simply not acceptable. This excessive noise can significantly impact those working in the area like vendors, traffic police, and commuters.”

Film Video Editor, Arvind Menon said, “There has been a noticeable increase in traffic and pollution in the last couple of years. Apart from traffic, even unchecked construction works contribute to an increase in the pollution levels.”

Abhishek T.S., analyst at Apple said “Noise pollution across Shaikpet, Hitec City, and Banjara Hills are over the roof, especially from 8 am to 10 am because of the traffic. There is not much anybody can do except pray that civic sense prevails.”

Infographics

Area                                          Day                                            Night

Residential

Norm                                             55                                               45

Jubilee Hills                               66.575*                                  63.5525

Tarnaka                                      64.0325                                  59.9325

Abids                                            55.925                                   55.77

Commercial

Norm                                                65                                            55

JNTU                                        69.945                                     68.3425

Industrial                                        75                                               70

Sanathnagar                               69.74                                       65.27

Jeedimetla                                66.4875                                    60.4375

Gaddapotharam                         72.24                                             NA

Sensitive                                        50                                            40

Zoo Park                                   47.895                                       53.71

UoH (Gachibowli)                      71.5275                                    68.955

        All figures in decibels (db)