Patna: Patna is facing a serious and growing problem of noise pollution, with more than half of the city now exposed to sound levels that are unsafe for human health. A recent survey by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board studied 950 markets and crowded places across the city. The report found that 521 locations recorded noise levels above 75 decibels, which is much higher than the safe limit. Well-known areas such as Boring Road, Kankarbagh, Rajapur Bridge and Patna Junction showed average noise levels above 80 decibels, a range usually allowed only in industrial zones.
The situation is worst at major traffic crossings and busy roads. According to the report, Rajapur Bridge, Patna Junction and Boring Road recorded noise levels above 86 decibels. Even residential and office areas, where people expect peace, showed an average of nearly 78 decibels. This means that many people in Patna are living and working in constant noise, with no real break from the loud environment.
Another survey by the Transport Department found that at seven major “horn hotspots” in the city, noise levels reached up to 110 decibels. This is far above the level recommended by the World Health Organization. The main reasons for this extreme noise include continuous honking, loud engines, use of DJs and loudspeakers, and traffic congestion. Around 60,000 people who were part of the survey said that the noise never really stops and they feel disturbed throughout the day.
Doctors and experts say that long exposure to loud noise can cause stress, high blood pressure, sleep problems and hearing loss. Children and elderly people are at even greater risk because loud noise affects their mental and physical health more quickly. Many residents have already started complaining of headaches, irritation, and difficulty sleeping due to the constant sound around them.
Taking the matter seriously, the Patna High Court has ordered the police to act strictly against noise pollution. The court directed the Senior Superintendent of Police to instruct all police stations to respond immediately to noise complaints made through the 112 helpline between 10 pm and 6 am. The court also asked the Pollution Control Board to submit a detailed report on what steps are being taken to control both air and noise pollution.
Pollution Control Board chairman D.K. Shukla said that action has already been taken against 27 people for using loudspeakers beyond the permitted time after Saraswati Puja. He also warned that strict action will continue in the future. As Patna continues to grow, experts say that controlling noise pollution is necessary to protect the health and peace of its citizens.
