Study of Noise Pollution in Downtown Area of Tabriz during Heavy Traffic Times

Noise pollution is a major health risks for resident of crowed areas. The aim of this current study was to determine the level of noise pollution in central locations of Tabriz. Monitoring was performed using a Sound Analyzer. All measurements were conducted during the midday (12:30 to 14:30pm) and in the evening (17:00 to 19:00pm) at the height of at least five feet above the ground and the microphone was pointed upward at an angle of 70 degrees to the sources. LAeq noise levels of 2 hours of measurement were highest in Shohada and Shahrdari Squares and were significantly higher than limit values. The Lmax was 85 db in Shohada Square during midday and 90. 2 dB in Shahrdari Square during the evening. The highest recorded noise levels was recorded in Shardary Square، nevertheless in the Sahib al amr Square the recorded noise level and LAeq in the midday was higher than evening. The result of the study demonstrated that in the evening hours noise pollution levels in the central areas of Tabriz were higher than midday. The noise levels alteration in the examined areas were in the range of ±5dB in the evening hours. Noise levels exceed limit value both in midday and evening hours in central areas of Tabriz، so making an intervention program for reducing noise pollution level is essential.