Assessment of Transient and Spatial Noise Pollution Levels at Selected Junctions in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State

Abstract

This study focused on assessing of transient and spatial noise levels at selected Port Harcourt Metropolis junctions. Spatial noise measurement and vehicle count were conducted at Eleme and Akpajo junctions. Comparative analyses of noise level and noise pollution level using line graph/t-test and determination of decline rate of noise pollution level using regression analysis were carried out.  Comparative analyses of noise levels at the two study locations using traffic count were also done. The noise pollution level was compared with National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and World Health Organization (WHO) noise standards and a safe zone determined at study locations. Maximum and minimum noise recorded were 88.99dB(A) and 50.05dB(A) at Eleme junction, 87.51dB(A) and 49.02dB(A) at Akpajo junction. Findings showed that the noise pollution level was relatively higher than noise level with distance away from the junctions; however, there was no significant difference between noise level and noise pollution level. Maximum noise pollution level average decline rate of -0.3691dB was observed at Eleme junction in the morning, while the minimum noise pollution level average decline rate of -0.2656dB was observed at Akpajo junction, in the morning hours. External sources also contributed to noise level at the junctions. Those living or doing business within 100m and 120m of Akpajo and Eleme junctions, respectively are at risk of having noise-induced auditory, physiological and behavioral problems. There is need for continuous monitoring of noise level at study locations. Regular health assessment of people living within the study locations. Noise control regulations should be made and enforced by the Government.