The State of Noise Levels in Major Motor Parks in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS) | Volume V, Issue IX, September 2020 | ISSN 2454–6186

The State of Noise Levels in Major Motor Parks in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria

 Salami, John Tolulope^1*, Sawyerr, Henry Olawale² ,Oluwatuyi, Victor Shegun^3
1,2,3Department of Environmental Health Science, Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria.
*Corresponding author 

Abstract: Noise pollution is a major threat that affects the well-being of man in urban areas. This study assessed the noise pollution levels at major motor parks in Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria. A total of Five (5) major motor parks were selected within the Metropolis namely: Offa garage motor park, Soludero Motor Park, Maraba motor park, New-Shao garage motor park and Saw-mill garage motor park. Noise levels assessment in the motor parks were measured using a Benetech GM 1357 factory-calibrated sound level meter. Measurements were taken at three points in each motor parks, making a total of fifteen points in all. The assessment took place in the morning between the hours of (6.00am-8:00am) ,afternoon (12-2:00pm) and evening (4:00-6:00pm) three times weekly in alternate days for four weeks. No night time assessments were made. The results revealed that with the exception of Offa garage motor park with 69.94 dB(A) that was slightly lower and within the 70 dB(A) WHO standard, all other motor parks had levels that were above the WHO recommended limit. Results showed exceedance of 60 dB(A) National Environmental Standard and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA) recommended permissible limit in all the motor parks. The motor park with highest noise levels is Saw-mill garage motor park with mean noise value of 74.45 dB(A) followed by New-Shao garage motor park with 72.24 dB(A) then Maraba motor park having 71.74 dB(A) while Soludero motor park had 71.48 dB(A) and the least noise level was recorded at Offa garage motor park with 69.94 dB(A) . This study provides and creates awareness on the implications of noise in motor parks .The lead source of noise is vehicular activities as observed during the assessement. The findings of the study provide information on the state of noise pollution in the motor parks and likely impacts on those that engage in activities in the motor parks. The study recommended that for vehicular noise pollution, it is important for the management of the motor parks to enlighten the drivers and vehicle owners the need to repair and maintain their vehicles to reduce the noise at source. Also, there is need for sporadic monitoring and assessment of noise levels in motor parks so as to provide relevant data on the state of noise levels in motor parks in urban centres, this will bridge up the data gap challenges. In ensuring the health effects of noise is prevented, there is need for the Ministry of Environment and other environmental regulatory agencies to create awareness and sensitize the public on the dangers of noise pollution. Strict actions on noise pollution should be done by the Ministry of Environment to ensure strict compliance to noise. Lastly, the need for periodic auditory examination and screening of motor park users and workers should be carried out for individuals who use and perform activities in motor parks.

Read More