Assessment of Noise Level from Selected Highways and Motor Parks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja

Abstract

This study determined the noise level of specifically selected Highways and Moto parks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja Nigeria, as compared with the regulatory permissible limit for noise exposure. These sources were studied at five specific locations each. A total of  10 locations were studied.  Noise level was determined using the Noise Level Meter App (18.0). The minimum, maximum and average noise readings displayed on the noise meter were recorded at 4 sampling points per location. Readings were taken in the morning (7-10am), afternoon (12 noon-2 pm) and evening (5-7pm) per sampling point. Data were analyzed using Minitab 17.0.  One Way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) was applied while mean separation was done using the Fisher’s method at P≤0.05 (95% confidence limit). The DNLs (Daytime Noise Level) of highways was 81.5 dB while motor park was 76.1 dB. All noise level parameters exceeded NESREA permissible limits of 65 dB limits and the WHO limit of 75 dB. Significant differences were recorded in noise levels readings at different periods of time (P<0.05) where morning (AMNL) and afternoon (AANL) readings were significantly higher than the evening (AENL) reading. Although nighttime noise level (NNL) was within the acceptable range, the NNL were higher at all motor parks including El-Rufai Park Nyanya (50.2 dB), Benue Links Park Area 1 Graki (49.6 dB), Pleasure Travels Park Mararaba (49.5 dB). Trees were either absent or low in density at motor parks but were in abundantly present at highways. This study found no relationship between noise level and presence of trees at designated places as R-values were very weak. There is need to apply appropriate noise reduction mechanism in the FCT as the seat of the Federal Government since the regulatory limits are exceeded. There is need for appropriate noise regulatory measures by relevant stakeholders in the environmental and health sectors.