Many countries today are experiencing problems associated with noise pollution (excessive noise above a normal background noise). What are the causes of this phenomenon, and what effects does it have on the people affected?
The contemporary world is facing a new form of pollution emanating from noise, primarily due to human activities such as traffic congestion, construction, loud music, and so forth. The affected populace faces physical and psychological health risks. In the following paragraph, I will discuss the reasons and how it harms individuals and society.
To commence with, the primary cause of increased decibel levels is traffic chaos caused by cars, trucks, trains and aircraft occurring owing to horns, engine sounds, especially in urban areas. As per studies, most modern urban locales are exposed to ceaseless deafening humming of vehicles and blaring sounds of airplanes flying over cities. Moreover, factories and construction sites, where heavy machinery is used: generators, cranes and drilling equipment, create intense loud sound throughout the day. Moreover, in weddings, festivals, parties and other events, people often play music at deafening volumes, making the surroundings noisy.
Consequently, this pollution affects people profoundly in a myriad of ways, prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to tinnitus, and later result in loss of hearing ability, particularly the vulnerable sector, including juvenile, the elderly and pregnant women. In extreme cases, it can lead to hospitalization. Additionally, it raises stress levels and causes anxiety in every age group. In 2023, a study conducted in Northumberland Hills hospital found that loud noises were one of the common reasons for frustration, stress among children. Furthermore, high pitch sounds affect students detrimentally as they are unable to focus properly on their studies; consequently their grades in exams suffer.
In conclusion, noise pollution is mainly caused by transport, industrial and commercial activity, and irresponsible behavior of households, and is harmful for physical and mental well being. Therefore, governments should take appropriate action by imposing fines and making strict laws against it.
