Pak-EPA’s initiative on Noise Level Study in Islamabad

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) has conducted a comprehensive study to assess noise levels in various sectors of Islamabad. The initiative, led by Ms. Farzana Altaf Shah, Director General Pak-EPA and overseen by Dr. Zaigham Abbas, Director (Lab/NEQS), aims to evaluate noise pollution in commercial, residential, hospital, and university areas.

The study categorizes areas into residential, commercial, industrial, and silence zones, with prescribed daytime noise limits of 55dB, 65dB, 75dB, and 50dB respectively. Pak-EPA’s monitoring team is currently measuring noise levels against these standards to determine compliance with National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). Preliminary findings indicate noise levels ranging from 50dB to 76 dB in different monitored areas. While some areas, including certain hospitals, markets, and industrial zones, are found to comply with NEQS limits, others have exceeded the prescribed noise levels.

Pak-EPA will release a detailed report upon completion of the study, outlining specific noise levels, areas of concern, and recommended mitigation measures. The Agency remains committed to improving Islamabad’s environmental quality and reducing noise pollution.