Investigation of diurnal road traffic noise in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria

Road traffic noise is the main source of noise in cities and is considered not only an environmental problem but also a threat to public health. This study assessed diurnal road traffic noise levels and their correlation with traffic flow characteristics in Makurdi metropolis, aiming to determine the extent of noise pollution and suggest solutions. Five locations in Makurdi metropolis were selected for this study. Results from the study revealed that the mean equivalent continuous noise level (Leq), noise pollution level (LNP), traffic noise index (TNI), and noise climate (NC) ranged from 68.65 to 70.46 dBA, 62.90 to 67.64 dBA, 16.98 to 31.13 dBA, and -2.18 to -6.33 dBA respectively during dry season, while the mean Leq, LNP, TNI and NC ranged from 65.83 to 70.72 dBA, 56.71 to 67.62 dBA, 3.87 to 29.99 dBA and -3.10 to -9.12 dBA respectively during wet season. The Leq values exceeded the 60 dBA limit stipulated by National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) but were mostly below the 70 dBA limit recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO) except in few locations where the noise levels were slightly above WHO prescribed limit. It is recommended that public awareness campaigns on the harmful effects of road traffic noise be created by relevant agencies.