ABSTRACT
In recent times, noise has been recognized as a major source of pollution in many urban and semi-urban settlements. This study identified the various sources of noise, compared noise levels in various parts of the study area with recommended standards and determined the geo-physical characteristic of noise generated in Zaria metropolis. A noise meter extech model 407750 was used for the noise measurements. A traffic count was conducted in areas were noise levels are high and the possible effects was also determined. The reconnaissance survey carried out shows classification into Transportation and other noise sources and generation in the study area. Other results obtained showed that noise levels at day (LD) from various sources (Kwangila, PZ and Kofan Doka), areas were 100.79dB (A), 99.77dB (A) and 94.46dB (A) respectively. These measurements were all above the WHO standard limit of 75dB (A). The mean noise level at night (LN) relatively falls within the standard limit. The study revealed that the commercial, industrial, and transportation noises of the metropolis exceeded the 24 hour WHO noise level quality standard of 65dB (A). The study however showed that the metropolis mean noise level of day and night (LDN) is within the NESREA standards especially in the institutions and schools 45dB (A), residential 54.59 dB (A), industrial 73.78 dB (A), hotels 55.6 dB (A) and religious areas 50.49 dB (A). The average day-night noise level (LDN) obtained is an indication that the noise level of Zaria metropolis is on the average when compared to NESREA standards. The perception of the residents on possible effects of noise to human health revealed that majority of the respondents which constitute 56.3%, 58.2% and 60.6% agreed that noise causes headache, loss of sleep and stress respectively, compared to their counterparts who disagree were 2.8%, 7.5% and 12.5% in that order. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the areas where noise levels are relatively high, planting of trees amongst others should be explored to mitigate the high noise levels.