Noise pollution is becoming an alarming global concern, with several major cities now crossing the 100-decibel (dB) mark, levels comparable to an airplane take-off or a rock concert. India is no exception. According to a recent report, Moradabad has been named the world’s noisiest city. South Asia as a whole tops the list, with the three loudest cities all coming from this region. In India, several major urban areas, including Delhi, Kolkata, Asansol and Jaipur, recorded noise levels between 83 and 89 dB, far above acceptable limits.
Noise pollution worsening across global cities
The report also analysed noise levels in other international hubs. In New York, nine out of ten daily public transport users are exposed to noise above 70 dB, loud enough to cause permanent hearing damage over time. Hong Kong faces similarly serious challenges, with two in five residents regularly exposed to traffic noise beyond recommended limits. In Europe, the situation is not much better. More than half of the population lives in areas where noise levels negatively affect their physical and mental well-being, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem.
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The world’s quietest cities listed
The report also identified the world’s quietest cities. Irbid in Jordan ranked first with an average noise level of 60 dB. Following it were Lyon in France and Madrid in Spain at 69 dB. Stockholm (Sweden) and Belgrade (Serbia) also featured with averages around 70 dB. According to WHO’s 1999 guidelines, acceptable noise levels are 55 dB for residential zones and 70 dB for commercial or traffic-heavy areas. Anything beyond this range is considered harmful.
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Why is Moradabad the noisiest city?
The primary reason is its massive brass industry. Known as the 'Brass City,' Moradabad hosts thousands of large and small brass factories and workshops. Activities such as metal melting, hammering, cutting, grinding, polishing and the operation of generators and blowers regularly generate noise between 80-120 dB. Most factories are located within residential neighbourhoods, allowing industrial noise to directly impact residents. Additionally, heavy movement of trucks, supply vans and loading-unloading vehicles adds to the chaos. Many units operate day and night due to high export demand, meaning the noise never really stops.
Health risks of excessive noise
Experts warn that long-term exposure to noise above 70 dB can gradually damage hearing. UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen also noted that excessive noise disrupts sleep, harms overall health and interferes with how animals communicate. She urged cities to increase green spaces and transition to electric transport systems to reduce both noise and pollution.