Urban noise pollution in a medium-sized city from Romania

Abstract

This research examines urban noise pollution in Galati, Romania, focusing on sound intensity measurements across six strategic locations. The study investigates noise levels during weekends at different moments (morning and afternoon), to assess varying patterns of anthropogenic activities. Measurements revealed that the Harbor area maintained the lowest noise pollution levels, while the Ring Road consistently showed extremely high sound levels, often exceeding acceptable limits. The research identified road traffic as the primary contributor to noise pollution, with construction activities significantly impacting local areas, where heavy machinery was used. Quantitative analysis demonstrated that most studied locations exceeded the 55 dB threshold considered acceptable for residential areas, with particularly concerning levels during peak traffic hours. The study encompassed 15 days of measurements, strategically selecting Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to capture the gradual decrease in anthropogenic activities throughout the weekend. Results indicate a clear correlation between traffic patterns, urban planning, and noise pollution levels, with the highest readings recorded during Friday evening rush hours. The findings suggest an urgent need for traffic management solutions and stricter enforcement of construction noise regulations to mitigate the growing urban noise pollution problem, which affects approximately over a hundred million people worldwide.