Noise pollution in Galle Fort

Introduction: Galle Fort being a living fort is a noisy place. Some people think that its too noisy and steps should be taken to mitigate noise levels within the Fort.

 Faculty of engineering of University of Ruhuna carried out a research to achieve the following objectives

• evaluate the impact of noise on tourism industry
• prepare contour maps of noise levels during different times of the day
• tourists perception on the noise levels
• major sources of noise
• possible measures that can be taken to mitigate noise levels.
• what causes strange noises around mid night? Ghosts, as some people think  or some other natural phenomena

Results:
Six noise contour maps were prepared representing 2 hour intervals from 6 am to 6 pm. Sample map for the period 6 am to 8 am is given below. It is interesting to note that the area near the court complex is the noisiest in the morning when lot of people gather. Then it becomes a very quiet area when the court begin work at 10 am.

Noise levels during the period 6 am to 8 am

Major sources of noise are

• construction sites
• school and playground
• religious places
• noise reflecting from Galle town
• motor vehicles, particularly three wheelers

Tourists are not concerned about nose level. Some said that noise makes it a lively Fort. However, some said that loud speakers of street vendors are annoying. 

Noise level at some locations are hazardous to health for those who expose for long periods

Contrary to common belief  particular type of brick used in road pavings, increases the noise level

Full report in pdf format can be made available upon request.