Noise Pollution in Kerman-Iran

Noise is defined as unwanted or objectionable sound. Human susceptibility to noise varies in terms of intensity, altitude, timbre of sound, personal sensibility, age, and history of ear disorder. Noise pollution which is the result of heterogeneous and uncontrolled developments of cities is one the serious problems in large cities of Iran. Although noise pollution in Kerman (located in southeast of Iran) is not as serious as that of large cities in Iran, it can be considered as one of the elements which have changed Kerman''s life pattern. In this study, conducted in 1999, in order to assess noise pollution level in Kerman, 13 stations were selected and the levels of Lmax, LAV, L99, L90, L50, L10 were measured daily for 156 days. Results, in all stations, indicated that sound level in Kerman exceeds national standard level and WHO guidelines. Therefore, it is essential to take some actions in order to control Kerman noise pollution with some undesirable impacts.