PANJIM: For the first time in the State, online real-time noise monitoring terminals would be installed by the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) across 12 locations, in the wake of growing concerns over the noise levels breaching permissible limits, especially along the coastal belt.
Based on the noise level mapping undertaken by the Board, it has identified locations covering commercial zones, silent zones
tand industrial zones to install these noise monitoring terminals.
The GSPCB is planning to set up a continuous, real-time online noise level monitoring facility with a centralized networking system linked to the offices of the GSPCB, Police Department and District Collectors. The system will monitor noise-levels continuously for 24 hours, 365 days a year.
Speaking to O Heraldo, GSPCB chairman Mahesh Patil said this real-time monitoring of noise levels was a first in the State. “The major focus would be on the coastal belt. At the same time, we will also install the facility at silent zone areas like Goa Medical College and Hospital and the High Court area, to see whether there are any violations,” he said.
As per law, the ambient noise quality standard for industrial areas in the daytime is 75 decibels (dB) while it is 70 dB at night time. For commercial areas, the noise level is restricted at 66 dB at day time and 55 dB at night, whereas for residential areas, the noise standards are 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night. For silent zones, the prescribed limit is 50 dB during day and 40dB during night hours.
Patil said that the online data will come to the GSPCB office with one feed going to the concerned police stations and district collectors’ office, thus helping them act swiftly.
“The Board has already undertaken a noise-mapping exercise to quantify sound pollution in industrial areas, the tourism belt and residential areas,” he said.
During the Board meeting, GSPCB member secretary Shamila Monteiro informed members that the Board officials assist police wherever required to measure noise, however, they cannot enforce action, as
the authority lies with the Sub divisional magistrate and deputy superintendent of police.
