MMRDA to install EU-certified sound barriers to reduce noise pollution on flyovers
MMRDA to install EU-certified sound barriers to reduce noise pollution on flyovers
The MMRDA has finally paid heed to the pleas of residents living near flyovers. They are planning to install noise barriers, which adhere to European Union (EU) norms, on city flyovers to control the level of noise pollution.
The MMRDA will also follow noise pollution programmes that adhere to the EU norms. One particular programme allows a person to note the noise generated by vehicles on a flyover, and also check whether the sound barriers are able to keep the noise pollution down to the desired level of 55 decibels (Db). This also aids in preparing statistics for future reference.
An MMRDA official said, "Presently, the distance between two barriers has enough space for the noise to escape. So, we are introducing more noise reflectors for all flyovers, close to the residential buildings."
These noise barriers will have deeper curves and will be nine feet tall.
Sumaira Abdulali, an anti-noise activist said, "The noise barriers can be efficient tools in minimising noise pollution, only if they are installed properly. Just implementing EU norms won't make much difference."
JJ flyover problem
A case in point is the levels of noise pollution on the JJ flyover. MMRDA officials believe that though the noise barriers installed on JJ flyover have been designed to absorb 55 (Db) nearly 10 per cent of this noise pollution escapes due to improper placement.
The MMRDA will initially upgrade the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road and Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, as these projects are being reviewed by World Bank. Later, the under construction Dr Ambedkar Road flyover and Sahar elevated road will have these noise barriers.
"We are calling for bids for the JVLR," said MMRDA spokesperson Dilip Kawath-kar. Officials said they would select bidders who would adhere to the EU norms for noise barriers.
Acoustic sound barrier
1) It should be area specific
2) The material should have a double layer of metal, with the right thickness and height
3) There should be vacuum between the exterior and interior of the noise barrier to absorb sound
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