Measurements and Model Calibration of Urban Traffic Noise Pollution

Problem statement: The problem of urban traffic noise pollution is universal and in the past few decades it has grown to the point that it has become a major concern for both the public and the policy-makers. Approach: In a comprehensive 18 month research project, traffic-generated noise was monitored at 47 roadway locations in fourteen districts in metropolitan Kuwait in 2004-2005. Simultaneously with noise, traffic flow variables of volume-by mix and traffic speed were also measured. Measurements of noise and traffic flow variables were performed for a period of 20 min at each location, repeated 3-5 times, during peak and off-peak hours to account for time-fluctuation of these variables. At each district, a sample of freeway, arterial, collector and local residential streets were included in the noise and traffic flow monitoring plan. In addition to the analysis of noise, flow and their interrelationships, two models-regressions and the FHWA’s traffic noise model, were employed to predict noise pollutions from traffic. Results: Findings indicated that traffic noise is at or above, the standard outdoor limits in most locations and especially at arterial roadways and freeways. Recommendations concerning measured to improve the problem of urban traffic noise pollution in Kuwait are also made. Conclusion: Findings of this research project had shown that level of traffic-generated noise pollution in Kuwait urban area is high enough to adversely affect the welfare activities and productivities of its residents. With the rapidly growing rate of infrastructural development and unplanned urban land-use change, it is almost certain, that problem of urban traffic noise pollution will soon assume a critical dimension and will be a cause of increasing concern for both public and responsible policy-makers. The quality of urban life will undoubtedly be adversely affected.